Dens evaginatus is a developmental malformation characterized by the presence of an extra cusp. In the anterior dentition, dens evaginatus is more commonly found in the maxilla and on the palatal surface of the tooth. Treatment may include root canal therapy followed by either an aesthetic restoration or a full crown coverage. In cases of mesiodens, supernumerary teeth or crowded dentition, extraction is often indicated. Presented is a case of a conservative treatment modality of dens evaginatus in a mandibular central incisor.
The effect of the XeCl-308nm excimer laser on the mineral content and surface morphology of cut dentin was examined in ten extracted human teeth. Each dentin specimen was lased for 4 s at a fluence of 1 J/cm2 and a frequency of 25 Hz. Non-lased area of the same specimen served as control. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry revealed a significant decrease in the phosphorus levels following laser treatment. A decrease in calcium levels also occurred but was not statistically significant. Nonsignificant changes in sulphur and potassium levels were also noted. Morphologically, the lased dentin showed an apparently melted surface with partial obstruction of the dentin tubules as well as cracks along the lased surface. Therefore, it appeared that laser treatment may alter the chemical structure as well as the surface morphology of the dentin.
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