What action should be taken to handle laser energy during treatment?

During laser therapy, it is crucial to ensure that the laser energy is directed appropriately to avoid unintended damage to surrounding tissues and structures. The correct action is to direct the laser energy away from the tooth structure, as this helps to focus the therapeutic effects of the laser on the intended target while minimizing the risk of harm to adjacent areas.

By managing the direction of the laser beam carefully, practitioners can optimize treatment efficiency and effectiveness. This is particularly important in dental treatments where precision is needed to avoid injury to sensitive structures, such as the gums, nerves, or other teeth.

The other choices do not align with safe laser practice. Directing energy towards the dental chair could pose risks or cause damage to equipment rather than benefit the patient. Using diffuse reflection techniques, while useful in some contexts, might not be the most effective way to achieve the desired outcomes in specific treatments. Gradually increasing power settings is not a standard practice for managing laser energy direction and does not directly relate to handling the energy during treatment.