Lasers in endodontics: a review

Abstract

Since the development of the ruby laser by Maiman in 1960 and the application of the laser for endodontics by Weichman in 1971, a variety of papers on potential applications for lasers in endodontics have been published. The purpose of this paper is to summarize laser applications in endodontics, including their use in pulp diagnosis, dentinal hypersensitivity, pulp capping and pulpotomy, sterilization of root canals, root canal shaping and obturation and apicectomy. The effects of laser on root canal walls and periodontal tissues are also reviewed. The essential question is whether a laser can provide equal or improved treatment over conventional care. Secondary issues include treatment duration and cost/benefit ratio. This article reviews the role of lasers in endodontics since the early 1970s, summarizes many research reports from the last decade, and surmises what the future may hold for lasers in endodontics. With the potential availability of many new laser wavelengths and modes, much interest is developing in this promising field.

Clinical Efficacy of Fluoride Varnish and Low-Level Laser Radiation in Treating Dentin Hypersensitivity

“…These findings indicate that Fluorniz application exerts a therapeutic effect on dentin sensitivity after the second and third application and that a fourth application is not required. The results of low-level laser therapy in reducing dentin hypersensitivity are highly satisfactory (4,5,7,8,14). In the present investigation, a significant reduction in the level of CDH to tactile (63.4%) and thermal-evaporative (67.1%) stimuli was observed in the group submitted to laser radiation, in agreement with most studies.…”

“…However, the results of studies show that therapies have failed on one or more of these criteria. In this respect, laser radiation has now become a reliable and reproducible alternative, with average success rates higher than 90% (8). The lasers used for this purpose can be divided into two groups: low power (HeNe and GaAlAs) and medium power lasers (Nd:YAG and CO 2 ) (8).…”

“…In another clinical study (8), teeth diagnosed with CDH were either submitted to GaAlAs laser applications or exposed to photocuring light for 30 s (sham treatment). GaAlAs laser therapy reduced pain significantly after each application and at the end of treatment.…”

Bacterial Efficacy of Ca(oH) 2 Against E.faecalis Compared with three Dental Lasers on Root Canal Dentin- An Invitro Study

“…KLINKE et al, were able to prove a bactericidal effect of the Nd:YAG laser at a depth of 1,000 μm. In comparison, a rinsing solution, such as NaOCl, only achieves effective bacterial reduction up to a depth of 100 μm [9,10].…”

“…This is nevertheless significantly lower than with Nd:YAG lasers. 980 nm diode lasers may also be an option although high transmission is achieved due to its higher absorption in water [9,10].…”