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Vapor emissions resulting from Nd:YAG laser interaction with tooth structure
S C Gelskey1, J M White, D E Gelskey
1Department of Dental Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. shirleygelskey@umanitoba.ca
Dental Materials : Official Publication of the Academy of Dental Materials
|September 14, 1999
Summary
This study investigated vapors from Neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser use on teeth. Camphor was detected when using ink-coated samples, highlighting potential risks for dental professionals and patients.
Area of Science:
- Dental Laser Technology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers are FDA-cleared for intraoral soft tissue treatment.
- Investigated efficacy and safety of Nd:YAG lasers for hard dental tissues, pulp, and periodontium.
- Odors from laser irradiation are known, but vapor composition and toxicity are unstudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify vapors emitted during Nd:YAG laser interaction with human dental tissues (carious and sound enamel/dentin).
- To analyze vapors from dental tissues coated with organic ink.
Main Methods:
- In vitro study using extracted human teeth.
- Nd:YAG laser irradiation (100 mJ, 10 Hz) for 1, 10, or 60 seconds.
- Vapor collection via charcoal absorption tubes and analysis by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS).
Main Results:
- No volatile compounds identified from Nd:YAG laser-treated caries, enamel, or dentin.
- Camphor positively identified in ink-coated dentin and glass bead samples after 60s irradiation.
- 2,5-norbornadiene tentatively identified in ink-coated samples; toxicity data is limited.
Conclusions:
- Identified camphor and potentially 2,5-norbornadiene in Nd:YAG laser-generated vapors from ink-coated dental samples.
- Further research is required to quantify emitted compounds and assess toxicity.
- Highlights the need for occupational and public health safety measures during laser dentistry.
