Prevention of third molar tooth development in neonate rat with a long pulse diode laser

Background and Objectives Third molars (wisdom teeth) in humans have limited functional value and cause a high frequency of morbidity. A window of opportunity exists to stop their development. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether a long pulse diode laser can selectively prevent third molar development in a rat animal model. Study Design/Materials and Methods The study calculated theoretical diode laser parameters and irradiated 2‐ to 4‐day‐old rat pups in the posterior aspects of the oral cavity near the time of tooth bud initiation. Rats were sacrificed at 35–50 days and examined intraorally and radiographically for third molar development. Control and treated sides were compared histologically. Results Nearly half of the maxillary third molars and 80% of the mandibular third molars were selectively prevented from developing using a 20 W diode laser with infrequent, minor adverse effects on maxillary jaw growth. Conclusions This study confirms the hypothesis that controlled, non‐invasive laser treatment delivered on the surface of the oral mucosa near the site of tooth bud formation can selectively achieve third molar agenesis. It also offers hope that further innovative studies may bring about a safe, non‐invasive laser treatment to selectively prevent third molar development in humans. Lasers Surg. Med. 35:385–391, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.