T
his supplement is the second of two promised supplements to the Journal. It represents one of the improvements that were recently brought to your attention in an earlier editorial (1). It is our hope that these changes enhance the value of Photomedicine and Laser Surgery to our subscribers and to the scientific community at large. The current supplement is focused on dentistry and oral health. This special supplement highlights topics that are representative of some of the current research and thinking in the field. It includes original research and case reports on a variety of subjects, including the evaluation of bond strength under various conditions, the effects of laser pre-exposure on endothelial cell seeding to a biomaterial surface, effects of acid etching and laser treatment on intra-coronal bleaching efficacy and enamel susceptibility to staining at different intervals post bleaching, the influence of LLLT on the speed of orthodontic movement and tooth movement following phototherapy, the effects of various agents and the KTP laser on microleakage under metal orthodontic brackets with thermal cycling, the combined effects of a desensitizing dentifrice and diode laser phototherapy in teeth with gingival recession, the bactericidal effects of Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers in infected curved root canals, clinical evaluation of LLLT in recurrent aphthous stomatitis efficacy in treating unresponsive oral lichen planus, and the treatment of severe laryngeal dysplasia and hyperkeratotic lesions of the oral cavity with CO2 lasers. In addition, there is an interesting article on systemic mercury levels in patients and dental students after exposure to dental amalgam.
The current supplement is further evidence of our continuing progress in bringing high-quality peer-reviewed materials to the scientific community with greater speed. We will continue learning and moving forward as we grow and progress. Providing value-added service for our readers and the scientific community at large is part of our commitment. Thank you for your ongoing support.
