Temperature Changes in the Deciduous Pulp Chamber During Cavity Preparation With the Er: YAG Laser

Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the temperature changes in the pulp chambers of deciduous molars during cavity preparation with an Er: YAG (erbium substituted: yttrium aluminium garnet) laser. Methods: Two cavities were prepared in 14 maxillary deciduous molars: one with the Er: YAG laser and other with a diamond bur using a high-speed handpiece (control), providing 4 groups with 7 cavities each. The laser treatment was applied for 30 seconds (group 1) and 60 seconds (group 3). The internal pulp temperature was recorded during preparation procedures with a thermocouple, and temperature changes were calculated by the difference between the maximum and initial temperature. Results: There were significant differences (P<.01) between Er: YAG laser irradiation for 60 seconds and 30 seconds and the 2 high-speed drilling groups, which were similar. The Er: YAG laser used for 60 seconds provided the highest temperature alteration (4.01 degrees C). Conclusion: Er: YAG laser irradiation increased the temperature of the deciduous teeth compared to the high-speed drilling treatment. The temperature increments, however, remained below the critical value (5.5 degrees C).