Lasers in Dental Hygiene: What Students Need to Know

Presented by: Joy Raskie

Course Description:

Lasers can do so much more than you may realize! Designed with curious dental hygiene students and future-focused clinicians in mind, this fast-paced introduction explores how diode lasers are being used in modern dentistry and why they are becoming such an exciting addition to patient care.

We’ll start with inflammation, bridging the gap between your pathology coursework and clinical application. Then we'll dive into the many procedures that can be incorporated into the hygiene appointment. Through current research, before-and-after photos, and procedure videos, you’ll see lasers in action and discover how they can be used to reduce bacteria, support periodontal therapy, decrease sensitivity, manage oral lesions, and more. We’ll also explore photobiomodulation and red light therapy, including some surprising ways this technology can help reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing.

Whether you are preparing for clinical rotations, getting ready to graduate, or are simply curious about what the future of hygiene holds, this course will give you a fun, practical look at the possibilities of laser technology in dentistry.

Course objectives:

At the conclusion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Explain the inflammatory process and how laser technology can be used as a tool to support tissue health.
• Identify common laser procedures and opportunities for incorporating laser technology into future hygiene appointments.
• Discuss the role of photobiomodulation and red light therapy in reducing pain and inflammation, promoting healing, and biostimulating tissue.

About the presenter:

Joy has been a dental hygienist for over 23 years, but if you ask her, she’ll tell you she still loves this profession as much as she did on day one. She stumbled into lasers 13 years ago, became instantly obsessed, and now spends her days helping dental teams feel confident, excited, and ready to use lasers in daily practice.

Joy is the Director of Education for Advanced Dental Hygiene and teaches more than 150 laser courses a year—yes, she really does love this stuff. Her teaching style is down-to-earth, practical, and full of those “okay, that finally makes sense” moments. Attendees often say learning with her feels less like a lecture and more like learning from someone who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Outside of the laser world, Joy enjoys spending time with her husband, homeschooling her daughter, and pretty much any adventure that gets her outdoors.

About this Student Webinar Program:

This is an interactive student webinar designed specifically for current students and recent grads. While your camera will be off, we encourage lively discussion in the chat box—ask questions, share takeaways, and connect with other future professionals!

This format is designed to be flexible and student-friendly, so feel free to tune in between classes, during your commute, or wherever you may be. Whether you're soaking up info on the go or participating from your couch, we're glad you're here!