Cj. Whitters et R. Strang, Preliminary investigation of a novel carbon dioxide laser for applicationsin dentistry, LASER SURG, 26(3), 2000, pp. 262-269
Background and Objective: A novel pulsed CO, laser was examined for its abi
lity to ablate hard dental tissues.
Study Design/Materials and Methods: Lased human enamel surfaces were viewed
using light and scanning electron microscopy for evidence of adverse struc
tural changes. In vitro shear bond strength tests were conducted on composi
te resin bonded to lased enamel surfaces and compared with conventionally p
repared specimens. A thermal camera was used to monitor temperature changes
during cavity preparation in tooth slabs to assess likely changes to the d
ental pulp.
Results: No charring or surface cracks were observed on lased enamel surfac
es using both microscopic techniques. Bonding of the lased enamel surfaces
to composite resin was not significantly different from the acid-etched con
trol group. For cavities with a remaining dentine thickness of less than 1
mm, the temperature rise was less than 6 degrees C.
Conclusion: A novel pulsed CO, laser shows promise for cutting cavities in
teeth. Lasers Surg. Med. 26:262-269, 2000 (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.