Light and scanning electron microscope investigations comparing calculus removal using an Er:YAG laser and a frequency-doubled alexandrite laser

Peter Rechmann D.D.S.; Thomas Hennig; Hamid M. M. Sadegh; Dan S. Goldin

doi:10.1117/12.273600

15 May 1997 Light and scanning electron microscope investigations comparing calculus removal using an Er:YAG laser and a frequency-doubled alexandrite laser

Peter Rechmann D.D.S., Thomas Hennig, Hamid M. M. Sadegh, Dan S. Goldin

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 2973, Lasers in Dentistry III; (1997) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.273600
Event: BiOS '97, Part of Photonics West, 1997, San Jose, CA, United States

Abstract

With respect to lasers emitting within the mid-IR spectral domain fiber applicators are being developed. Intended is the use of these lasers in periodontal therapy and their application inside the gingival pocket. Aim of the study presented here is to compare the effect of an Er:YAG laser on dental calculus with the results following irradiation with a frequency doubled Alexandrite laser. The surface of freshly extracted wisdom teeth and of extracted teeth suffering from severe periodontitis were irradiated with both laser wavelengths using a standardized application protocol. Calculus on the enamel surface, at the enamel cementum junction and on the root surface was irradiated. For light microscope investigations undecalcified histological sections were prepared after treatment. For the scanning electron microscope teeth were dried in alcohol and sputtered with gold. Investigations revealed that with both laser systems calculus can be removed. Using the frequency doubled Alexandrite laser selective removal of calculus is possible while engaging the Er:YAG laser even at lowest energies necessary for calculus removal healthy cementum is ablated without control.

Citation Download Citation

Peter Rechmann D.D.S., Thomas Hennig, Hamid M. M. Sadegh, and Dan S. Goldin "Light and scanning electron microscope investigations comparing calculus removal using an Er:YAG laser and a frequency-doubled alexandrite laser", Proc. SPIE 2973, Lasers in Dentistry III, (15 May 1997); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.273600

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