George I Bekov

US Patent:

20040259053, Dec 23, 2004

Filed:

Jun 18, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/464344

Inventors:

George Bekov - Pleasant Hill CA, US
Jay Goble - Pleasant Hill CA, US
Alexandre Di Sessa - Concord CA, US
William Gianni - Concord CA, US

International Classification:

A61C003/03

US Classification:

433/119000, 433/029000

Abstract:

A novel approach to laser-assisted dental scaling methods and apparatus is presented. The invention significantly reduces risk of systemic medical health hazards to patients and dental staff resulting from bacteria contaminated aerosols produced by scaling devices. The method comprises steps for the dynamic treatment of oral sites with photosensitive agents activated by intensive laser light during dental scaling and cleaning procedures. Dual action of photodynamic therapy and intensive laser radiation enhance destruction of pathogenic microorganisms for safer dental procedures.