The effects of pulsed ultraviolet and infra-red lasers on dental enamel

To evaluate micromorphological changes seen in enamel following irradiation with pulsed lasers, extracted human teeth were treated with a TEA-CO2, an Er:YAG and an ArF laser systems. Light and scanning electron microscopic studies demonstrate that the Er:YAG laser produces a zone of microcracks in the subsurface area. While TEA-CO2 laser irradiation results mostly in surface melting, the Er:YAG laser produces a roughened enamel surface. After ArF laser irradiation a retentive surface appears, accompanied by some melting effects and an increased porosity. The observed results of all the employed laboratory type lasers varied over a wide range due to the widespread biologic differences in tooth structures.