CE #4 April 11, 2022

Sponsored by Convergent Dental

Topic: “Laser Dentistry for Kids: Is pain free and needle free restoration really possible?”
Speaker: Dr. Raylien Chao
Location: Radisson Hotel
Fee: Free (Limited to only CCDSBC Members)

Synopsis: A CO2 laser can perform hard and soft tissue procedure without local anesthetic – no needle! This adds some excitement to our existing tool box of chair-side behaviour management, nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and general anesthesia that are routinely used in pediatric dentistry. Besides prevention, one of the most important things in pediatric dentistry is to prepare our little ones with motivation to care for their oral health in the long run. Studies have shown that when the experience in childhood in dentistry is positive, people are more likely to carry forward good oral hygiene practice and routine dental care in adulthood. As a specialist, I have no problem doing dentistry the traditional way, but I am excited to share with you the science behind a CO2 laser and its application in pediatric dentistry that’s shaping a brand-new experience.

Learning Objective:

  • What is available for minimally invisible dentistry for children
  • The key differences when treating primary versus adult teeth
  • Basic science and application for a CO2 laser in hard tissue
  • Basic science and application for a CO2 laser in soft tissue

The Clinician: Dr. Raylien Chao, DDS MS FRCD©., is a board-certified pediatric dentist in Canada and the U.S. She obtained her B.S. degree in Economics at University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2010. Upon graduation, she found her true passion in “people” and prevention and took a turn in her career. She received a Master’s degree in Human Nutrition from Columbia University in 2011 and later graduated from University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2015 with High Distinction. She completed her pediatric specialty training as the chief resident at NYU Langone Health Center in Florida. During the school years, Dr. Chao founded the Student Chapter of Public Health Dentistry and served on the board for 3 years actively involved in community service. Dr. Chao became a Vancouverite in 2017 and is the current Vice President of the BC Society of Pediatric Dentists (BCSPD). She has two young daughters who have been happily taken every second of her free time outside of work. Otherwise, Dr. Chao enjoys guitar, karaoke, and hikes around the beautiful BC.