Comparing efficiency and root surface morphology after scaling with Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Laser Dentistry
• Periodontology

Background:

• Dental calculus removal is crucial for periodontal health.
• Traditional scaling methods can be time-consuming and may not fully remove calculus.
• Laser technology offers a potential alternative for efficient calculus debridement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficiency and root morphology effects of Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers in dental calculus removal.
• To evaluate calculus remnant, carbonization, and crater formation after laser treatment.
• To assess the time required for calculus removal using both laser types.

Main Methods:

• Extracted periodontally compromised teeth were used for the study.
• Calculus was marked and divided on each tooth.
• Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers were applied with specific energy parameters for calculus removal.
• Stereomicroscopic analysis was performed to evaluate treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• Er:YAG laser removal time (7.12 ± 4.11s) was significantly faster than Er,Cr:YSGG (15.22 ± 6.18s).
• No carbonization or calculus remnants were observed with either laser.
• Er:YAG laser group showed significantly fewer craters than the Er,Cr:YSGG group.

Conclusions:

• Er:YAG laser is more efficient for calculus removal than Er,Cr:YSGG laser under the tested parameters.
• Both lasers are effective in calculus removal without causing carbonization.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and optimal parameters for laser calculus removal.