Er:YAG removal of subgingival calculi: efficiency, temperature, and surface quality

Aim of this study was to evaluate a handpiece with a special fiber tip for Er:YAG laser removal of subgingival calculus. The morphological changes of the treated areas were observed by light microscopy and SEM. To evaluate the efficiency, the time for complete removal of the calculi was measured. The temperature development in the pulp during laser treatment was investigated by a thermocouple inserted into a root canal. After calculi ablation, only smooth ablation traces are visible. The depth of the ablation traces is about 100 micrometers . Roughness of the treated area is similar to the untreated area. The ablation efficiency depends strongly on the shape and location of the calculi and varies between 4.6 and 20 mm2/min. During non stop preparation the maximum occurred temperature in pulp was 7.8 K. The results show that the Er:YAG laser with the used fiber delivery systems and handpiece is suitable for effective and sparing removal of subgingival calculus in periodontal treatment.

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