On 4 September 2026, the Hub of Knowledge in Orofacial Laserology conducted the “Safe Use of Lasers in Dentistry” training program based on the Hub’s Standard for Care and Safe Use of Lasers in Dentistry, B.E. 2569 (2026)*. The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) supported the program, which was implemented through collaboration among three network partners: the Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University, which serves as the Hub’s coordinating network; the School of Dentistry, University of Phayao; and the Dental Department, Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital. A total of 32 participants from the three networks attended the program.
The training team comprised clinicians and personnel trained in dental laser safety and experienced in using lasers in dentistry. The central training team included Prof. Dr. Sajee Sattayut, Managing Director of the Hub of Knowledge in Orofacial Laserology and Head of the Lasers in Dentistry Research Group, Khon Kaen University; Prof. Dr. Teerasak Damrongrungruang and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Waraporn Suwannarong from the Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University network; Dr. Surada Tanthananukul from the Borabu Hospital network; Mr. Surachet Nochlad, Laser Safety Officer at the Dental Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University; and Ms. Sasitorn Phaosup, Dental Hygienist for Bungoen Primary Care Hospital, Khon Kaen and Dr. Kittisak Kanyaphan, who served as the facilitator of the training process,Dr. Huynh Trang Thanh and Dr. Ha Thai Dam also served as facilitators for the hands-on workshop.
The program was broadcast live from Khon Kaen University to the two participating network sites, where local facilitators supported the on-site workshops. At Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital, Dr. Vimolkarn Damrongratnuwong from the MedPark Hospital network and Ms. Maliwan Eberharter from Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital facilitated the activities. At the University of Phayao, Prof. Dr. Patcharawan Srisilapanan, Dean of the School of Dentistry, served as the network-based facilitator.
The course content covered the essential knowledge and competencies required for personnel responsible for the safe use of lasers in dentistry, as specified in the Hub’s 2026 Standard. The Hub's committee developed the curriculum framework and delivered it through a blended-learning approach. Participants first completed two hours of online self-directed learning before progressing to the workshop, which included guided discussion and knowledge review, scenario-based exercises, and practical assessment of the preparedness of clinical areas, equipment, and personnel.
The program received strong support from the Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University, as the Hub’s coordinating network. Asst. Prof. Dr. Ajiravudh Subarnbhesaj, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, assigned the Faculty’s Committee on the Safe Use of Lasers in Dentistry to translate the 2026 Standard into practice within the Faculty. The Faculty also provided facilities and served as the central site for delivering learning activities to network sites at Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital and the University of Phayao.
The program assessed participants' theoretical knowledge and practical performance. Participants rated their learning experience as very good. Participants responded positively to both the online learning and the scenario-based practical sessions. They reported improved knowledge and understanding of risk assessment, preparedness, and safe practices before and during dental laser procedures, with clear potential for application in their workplaces.
This initiative represents an important step for the Hub of Knowledge in Orofacial Laserology. The Hub has moved beyond producing a reference standard by developing a structured learning model that translates the Standard into practice. Through this approach, relevant personnel can acquire the knowledge and practical competencies needed to undertake responsibility for the safe use of lasers in dentistry within their organizations.
