Atomic analysis and hardness measurement of the cavity prepared by laser

The purpose of this study was to compare the compositional changes and microhardness of the cavity floor prepared by erbium, chromium:yttrium-scandium-gallium-garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser irradiation with those of the conventional bur-prepared cavity. A total of 16 extracted human molar teeth (with no carious lesions or repairs) were selected for this study. On the buccal and lingual (palatal) surfaces of each tooth, cavities (diameter 3 mm, depth 2 mm) were prepared with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser system (Waterlase MD(TM), USA) and high-speed turbine. The cavities were cross-sectioned and subjected to atomic analysis by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX) and Vickers hardness test. Statistical analyses were performed with t-tests. Surface characteristics of the prepared cavities were also investigated by SEM. No significant differences were found between the calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P) ratio and Vickers hardness of laser- and bur-prepared cavities. The SEM observation revealed that the lased cavity surface was irregular, and there was also an absence of smear layer; the orifices of dentinal tubules were exposed. Microhardness measurement of the cavity floor confirmed that the Er,Cr:YSGG laser produced a clean-cut surface of the cavity.