The effects of low-level energy density Nd:YAG irradiation on calculus removal

This study assessed the effects of using an Nd:YAG laser to remove dental calculus from root surfaces. Human extracted molar teeth, with extensive calculus attachment to root surfaces, were irradiated with an Nd:YAG beam [power densities (PD) = 1.09 W/cm 2 and 2.19 W/cm 2; energy densities (ED) = 49.2 J/cm 2 and 98.4 J/cm 2]. An additional group of teeth was instrumented with a Gracey 11/12 curette. A separate group of untreated specimens served as controls. Specimens were examined under scanning electron microscopy and rated as to the degree of calculus detachment from root surfaces. Nd:YAG irradiation at low ED did not appreciably affect the integrity of the calculus root surface attachment. The higher-ED Nd:YAG irradiation appeared to mimic the type of calculus removal depicted with conventional hand instrumentation. Root surface damage from both laser ablations was negligible.