Effects of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation on the surface characteristics of titanium discs: an in vitro study

Lasers are used to modify the surfaces of dental implants or to decontaminate exposed implant surfaces. However, research is lacking on whether the laser causes any change on the surfaces of titanium implants. We aimed to determine the effects of laser treatment on the surface characteristics of titanium discs. Nine discs were fabricated using grade-V titanium with resorbable blast texturing surface characteristics. The discs were irradiated with an erbium, chromium: yttrium, scandium, gallium, garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser under different experimental conditions (R1-9). Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate implant surface topography qualitatively, and a mechanical contact profilometer was used to evaluate surface roughness. The R3 and R5 parameters caused no measurable change. Minor cracks and grooves were observed in discs treated with the R1, R2, R4, R7 and R9 parameters. Major changes, such as melting, flattening and deep crack formation, were observed in discs subjected to R6 (2 W, 30 Hz, 2 mm. distance, 30 s) and R8 (3 W, 25 Hz, 2 mm. distance, 45 s) parameters. The lowest surface roughness value was obtained with the R8 parameter. Irradiation distance, duration, frequency and power were the most significant factors affecting surface roughness. Parameters such as wavelength, output power, energy, dose and duration should be considered during irradiation. The results of this study indicate that the distance between the laser tip and the irradiated surface should also be considered.