In vitro evaluation of Er:YAG laser irradiation in apicoectomy and retrofilling cavity preparation compared to two different techniques

The aim of this research was to evaluate under SEM observation, the apical cut surface and retrofilling cavity prepared with Er:YAG laser and two other conventional techniques. 30 extracted human teeth were divided into two groups of 15 teeth each. For Group 1 apicoectomy was performed using high speed handpiece and diamond burs. For Group 2 Er:YAG* laser irradiation (wavelength of 2.94 mu m, pulse width of 250-500 mu s) was used in 400mJ of energy, frequency of 6Hz, on focus mode under destiled water refrigeration. Each group was divided in 3 subgroups. For groups G1A and G2A, retrofilling cavity preparations were performed using low speed handpiece and burs, for groups GIB and G2B Enac technique was indicated. Groups G1C and G2C Er:YAG laser irradiation was used under same energy level previously described. All specimens were prepared for SEM observations. Pictures were taken under 30x and 600x magnification Two different observers analyzed the smoothness and morphological appearance of those preparations. Data's were collected showing a smothness surface, no debries or smear layer on group 2 (Laser irradiation) compared to group 1. Differences were also noted when retrofiling cavities were analysed.