Clinical applications of the Er:YAG laser in cariology and oral surgery

For the treatment of carious decays of enamel and dentin the Er:YAG laser is preferred in comparison to other laser systems, because of the thermomechanical process. Cavity preparation as well as removal of secondary carious lesions without thermal damage to the tooth hard substances and the pulp is possible. Clinical studies have shown that the pain perception is less than by drilling with the mechanical burr. From experimental studies it can be concluded, that the Er:YAG laser can possibly substitute the acid etching technique in conditioning the tooth surface. Further indications can be given in oral surgery for incision or excision of benign mucosal diseases and for cutting bone. As an advantage, opposite to other thermal laser systems, the wound healing process is very similar to the wound healing after mechanical cutting by the scalpel or by the burr.