Scanning electron microscope [SEM] evaluation of tooth surface irradiated by different parameters of Erbium: Yttrium Aluminium Garnet [Er:YAG] laser

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to investigate the Scanning Electron Microscope [SEM] analysis of tooth surface irradiated by different parameters of ErYAG laser. 15 caries-free extracted human third molars were used in this study. The teeth were put into 5 groups for laser irradiation as follows Group 1 [power 2.5 W, Energy 250 mJ]; Group 2[power 3 W, Energy 300 mJ]; Group 3 [power 3.5 W, Energy 350 mJ]; Group 4 [power 4 W, Energy 400 mJ]; Group 5 [power 4.5 W, Energy 450 mJ]. All samples were prepared by repetition rate of 10 Hz. Then, the samples were prepared for SEM examination. The SEM images showed cleaned ablated surface and exposed dentinal tubules, without production of smear layer. It can be concluded that ErYAG laser can be an alternative technique for surface treatment and can be considered as safe as the conventional methods, like turbine and bur