CO2, Er: YAG and Nd: YAG lasers in endodontic surgery

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: CO2, ErYAG and NdYAG lasers have been used in endodontic surgery. This in vitro study evaluated 1 percent Rhodamine B dye penetration using computer-assisted morphometry (ImageTool Software®) of 108 endodontically treated human permanent canines. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Teeth were divided into 9 groups according to the technique used A 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, root-end cavity preparation with ultrasound and filled with MTA; B 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, root-end cavity prepared with ultrasound and filled with MTA, and treatment of apical surface with CO2 laser (1 W, CW/CW); C 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, and treatment of apical surface with NdYAG laser (150 mJ, 10 Hz); D 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, and treatment of apical surface with CO2 laser,(1 W, CW/CW); E apicoectomy with ErYAG laser (400 mJ, 10 Hz), root-end cavity prepared with ultrasound and filled with MTA; F apicoectomy with ErYAG laser (400 mJ, 10 Hz) and treatment of apical surface with NdYAG laser (150 mJ, 10Hz); G apicoectomy with CO2 laser (5W, CW/SP), root-end cavity prepared with ultrasound and filled with MTA; H irradiation of apical end with CO2 laser (1 W, CW/CW); I irradiation of apical end with NdYAG laser (150 mJ, 10 Hz). RESULTS: Dye penetration was found in all specimens at different rates, the lowest penetration occurring in groups C (16.20 percent), B (17.24 percent) and F (17.84 percent). CONCLUSIONS: Groups B, C and F represent the best technical sequences to perform endodontic surgery.