Treatment of root fracture by CO2 and Nd:YAG lasers: an in vitro study

The purpose of this in vitro study was to use scanning electron microscopy and polarized light microscopy to evaluate the feasibility of using either the CO2 laser or an Nd:YAG laser in combination with air/water surface cooling to effect fusion of fractured tooth roots. The experimental unit consisted of 81 single-rooted teeth, each with an induced root fracture. Fifty-six teeth that had been reapproximated in dental stone and 25 teeth that had been reapproximated with C-clamps were assigned to untreated control groups or groups for treatment using CO2 and Nd:YAG lasers. Laser treatment consisted of multiple passes along the line of fracture, which was inspected using a dissecting microscope after each pass until a visual indication of fusion or irreparable damage resulted. Scanning electron microscopy evaluation of the treated lines revealed heat-induced fissures and cracks, areas of cementum meltdown and resolidification, crater formation, and separation of cementum from underlying dentin. In no instance-regardless of reapproximation technique, laser type, energy, and other parameters-did the treatment effect fusion of the fractured root halves.