Possibility of root canal preparation by Er:YAG laser

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the cutting efficiency and morphological changes of root dentin irradiated by an Er:YAG laser in vitro.Study designThirty-two root dentin blocks were divided into 4 groups. The irradiation conditions were as follows: Group 1 (G1): 30 mJ, 10 pps, 1 mm/s, 20 times; Group 2 (G2): 30 mJ, 10 pps, 1 mm/s, 10 times; Group 3 (G3): 30 mJ, 10 pps, 2 mm/s, 20 times; and Group 4 (G4): 30 mJ, 25 pps, 1 mm/s, 10 times. After being irradiated, the blocks were observed by μ–CT and their width and depth were measured. Moreover, SEM observations were performed.ResultsThere were significant differences between G1 and G2, between G1 and G3, between G2 and G4, and between G3 and G4 for both width and depth (P < .05). The SEM observations showed that no smear layer was present on the surface of any of the samples.ConclusionThese results show that the Er:YAG laser operated under the conditions used in this study is an effective tool for root canal preparation.