The Dental Hacks Podcast

In this throwback episode Zach and Kevin feature Dr. Bob Convissar, a pioneer in laser dentistry with over 32 years of experience. He's a prolific author, lecturer, and practitioner who began his career after graduating from NYU in 1980 and acquiring a unique, century-old dental practice in New York City The main topic is the ABC's of Laser Dentistry, starting with a critical distinction between true lasers (like CO2​ and Erbium) and devices often called lasers but primarily used as hot glass tips (like diodes). Bob explains that diodes, which can operate at extremely high temperatures (750∘C to 1500∘C), work thermally, creating a burn, while CO2​ and Erbium lasers are absorbed by the water in soft tissue and vaporize it at 100∘C. He emphasizes that the CO2​ laser is the best option for general dentists doing soft tissue work, as it creates a much smaller zone of necrosis (thermal damage) than ElectroSurge or diode lasers, leading to better healing. He also offers a crucial financial perspective, arguing t