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Diode laser effect on enamel microhardness after dental bleaching associated with fluoride
Miriam Tomas de Magalhães1, Roberta Tarkany Basting, Eliete Rodrigues de Almeida
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Leopoldo Mandic, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
Photomedicine and Laser Surgery
|September 1, 2009
Summary
Diode laser activation of acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel increased human enamel microhardness. However, using diode lasers with hydrogen peroxide bleaching gels, with or without APF, did not alter enamel microhardness in this in vitro study.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials
- Laser Dentistry
Background:
- Cosmetic dentistry drives innovation in bleaching materials and techniques.
- Patient demand for aesthetic treatments fuels research in dental materials.
- Understanding material interactions with dental structures is crucial for efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess diode laser effects on human dental enamel microhardness.
- To compare outcomes of laser-activated acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) and bleaching agents.
- To evaluate the combined effects of laser, APF, and bleaching on enamel integrity.
Main Methods:
- In vitro study using 60 human third molar enamel fragments.
- Three groups: laser-activated APF, laser-activated hydrogen peroxide, and combined treatment.
- Microhardness analysis performed before and after all treatments.
Main Results:
- Laser-activated APF significantly increased enamel microhardness (p<0.05).
- No significant microhardness changes observed with hydrogen peroxide (with or without APF) photoactivated by laser.
- Statistical analysis included ANOVA, Tukey, and Student's t-tests.
Conclusions:
- Diode laser activation of APF enhances enamel microhardness.
- Hydrogen peroxide bleaching, even when laser-activated with or without APF, does not affect enamel microhardness.
- Laser application with APF presents a potential method for improving enamel resistance.
