Paediatric laser dentistry. Part 2: Hard tissue laser applications

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Laser Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Erbium lasers present a minimally invasive option for pediatric caries removal.
• The choice of dental material and bonding efficacy are critical post-laser treatment.
• Glass ionomers demonstrate reduced bonding strength on laser-irradiated tooth surfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the bonding properties of glass ionomers on laser-treated primary teeth.
• To compare laser-assisted decontamination and coagulation in pulp therapy with conventional methods.
• To assess the impact of erbium lasers on restorative material selection in pediatric dentistry.

Main Methods:

• Utilized erbium lasers for caries removal in primary teeth.
• Assessed the bonding properties of glass ionomers, resin-modified glass ionomers, and composites on laser-irradiated surfaces.
• Investigated laser effects on decontamination and coagulation in vital and non-vital pulp therapy.

Main Results:

• Glass ionomers exhibited significantly lower bonding properties on laser-irradiated teeth compared to conventional methods.
• Laser irradiation did not negatively impact bonding for composite and resin-modified glass ionomers.
• Erbium lasers demonstrated effective decontamination and coagulation in primary teeth pulp therapy.

Conclusions:

• Erbium lasers are effective for caries removal and pulp therapy in primary teeth.
• Material selection is crucial, as glass ionomers have compromised bonding after laser treatment.
• Lasers simplify and enhance cleaning and disinfection in pediatric endodontics.