Effects of erbium, Chromium : YSGG laser irradiation on root surface: Morphological and atomic analytical studies

Objective: The purpose of this study mas to investigate the morphological a nd atomic changes on the root surface by stereoscopy, field emission-scanni ng electron microscopy (FE-SERI), and energy dispersive S-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) after erbium, chromium:yttrium, scandium, gallium, garnet (Er,Cr: YSGG) laser irradiation in vitro, Summary Background Data: There have been few reports on morphological and atomic analytical study on root surface by Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation.;I Methods: Eighteen extracted human premolar and molar teeth were irradiated on root surfaces at a vertical position wi th water-air spray by an Er,Cr:YSGG laser at the parameter of 5.0 W and 20 Hz for 5 sec while moving. The samples were then morphologically observed b y stereoscopy and FE-SEM I and examined atomic-analytically by SEM-EDX. Res ults: Craters having rough but clean surfaces and no melting or carbonizati on were observed in the samples, An atomic analytical examination showed th at the calcium ratio to phosphorus showed no significant changes between th e control and irradiated areas (p > 0.01), Conclusions: These results showe d that the Er,Cr:YSGG laser has a good cutting effect on root surface and c auses no burning or melting after laser irradiation.