Laser Aided Ceramic Restoration Removal: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Laser Dentistry

Background:

• All-ceramic restorations are increasingly used but may require removal.
• Conventional removal methods are time-consuming and inconvenient.
• Laser application presents a novel approach for debonding ceramic restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive literature review on laser-aided debonding of ceramic restorations.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of laser application in removing dental ceramics.
• To analyze factors influencing debonding time and pulpal temperature rise.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar databases.
• Inclusion of seven articles published between 2011 and 2018.
• Assessment of studies based on shear bond strength, debonding time, and intrapulpal temperature.

Main Results:

• Er:YAG laser application reduced shear bond strength of ceramic laminate veneers.
• Debonding times varied, averaging 106-190 seconds across studies.
• Laser settings significantly impact debonding time and temperature; 2.5 W/25 Hz identified as safest.
• No intrapulpal harm reported in some studies, but temperature rise is a concern.

Conclusions:

• Er:YAG laser facilitates efficient and less time-consuming removal of ceramic restorations.
• The procedure poses no harm to underlying dentin.
• Potential pulpal temperature rise can be managed with adequate air-water cooling.