Guam Board Considers Dental Laser Regulations for Hygienists
The Guam Board of Examiners for Dentistry is weighing whether to enact new laws to regulate dental lasers in local practices, following a push from registered dental hygienists who use the technology. Board member Paul Mendiola raised the regulatory gap during the board’s September meeting, pointing out that current Guam law lacks clear rules for laser devices.
Mendiola estimated that up to 40% of dental offices nationwide utilize dental lasers. Many registered dental hygienists practicing in Guam originally trained on the mainland, where laser procedures form a part of their training and regular procedures. According to Mendiola, hygienists primarily use diode lasers for minor soft-tissue procedures within the scope of hygiene, including laser bacterial reduction, laser curettage, and laser-assisted periodontal therapy.
Board Review and Safety Concerns Over Diode Lasers
Board Chairman Dr. Antonio Rapadas noted that current law restricts lasers from being used to remove hard tissue or perform irreversible procedures. Rapadas stated that the board must research and investigate whether legislative changes are necessary. Vice Chair Dr. Joon Ha joined Rapadas in questioning whether diode lasers are being used for extensive tissue removal or could do something irreversible.
Lasers are also used for gingival contour, and that is irreversible,
Rapadas said during the meeting, adding that while assistants can do some things, they are all reversible, and everything has to be done under the direct supervision of a dentist.
Mendiola expressed a desire to get training or a safety course for hygienists and other dental assistants and staff who operate dental lasers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Guam Dental Laser Regulations
What types of dental lasers are hygienists using in Guam?
Practitioners primarily use diode lasers, which are soft-tissue lasers not meant to cut.
Who raised the issue of dental laser regulation to the board?
Paul Mendiola, a registered dental hygienist and board member, brought the regulatory gap to the attention of the Guam Board of Examiners for Dentistry during their September meeting.
What specific procedures do hygienists perform with lasers?
Hygienists use lasers for procedures within the scope of hygiene, such as laser bacterial reduction, laser curettage, and laser-assisted periodontal therapy.