Enamel and dentine of deciduous teeth Er:YAG laser prepared. A SEM study

Eur J Paediatr Dent. 2009 Jun;10(2):75-82.

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to observe dentine and enamel surfaces of deciduous teeth under SEM after cavity preparation with Er:YAG laser using different fluences. The results showed that when using Er:YAG laser for cavity preparation in deciduous teeth, no carbonisation or cracks were observed on the enamel and dentine surfaces using energy output between 150-250 Mj, and frequency 15 Hz. The SEM images of the dentine and enamel surfaces were similar to previous studies on permanent teeth: enamel with a typical "lava flow" appearance as a result of an open core of the prism that has lost its typical hexagonal aspect and the dentine with opened tubules plus a difference in the mineral thickness between peritubular and intertubular.

Conclusion: The difference between the SEM images of deciduous enamel and dentine when using three different energies (150-200-250 mJ) is not significant in order to recommend the use of one type of output energy. In addition, the SEM images are similar TO those of permanent teeth.

MeSH terms

  • Dental Enamel / ultrastructure*
  • Dentin / ultrastructure*
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy*
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning / methods*
  • Tooth, Deciduous / ultrastructure*