Open AccessEffects of 9,300 nm Carbon Dioxide Laser on Dental Hard Tissue: A Concise Review
Author(s) -
Vicky Wenqing Xue,
Irene Shuping Zhao,
Iris Xiaoxue Yin,
John Yun Niu,
Edward Chin Man Lo
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
clinical, cosmetic and investigational dentistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.518
H-Index - 23
ISSN - 1179-1357
DOI - 10.2147/ccide.s304273
Subject(s) - carbon dioxide laser , enamel paint , dentin , materials science , laser , dentistry , hard tissue , absorption (acoustics) , fluoride , composite material , laser surgery , chemistry , optics , inorganic chemistry , medicine , physics
A carbon dioxide laser at 9,300 nm has a high absorption affinity for water and a shallow depth of penetration. It can be used for soft tissue surgery and hemostasis. Besides, it matches well with the absorption characteristic of hydroxyapatite in enamel and dentine. Therefore, the laser possesses a great ability for energy transfer to dental hard tissues. It has a low risk of thermo-damage to the dentine-pulp complex because it has a shallow depth of heat absorption. Hence, the laser is safe for dental hard tissue preparation. A carbon dioxide laser at 9,300 nm can effectively alter the chemical structure of teeth. It increases the ratio of calcium to phosphorus and converts the carbonated hydroxyapatite to the purer hydroxyapatite of enamel and dentine. It can alter the surface morphology of a tooth through surface melting, fusion, and ablation of dentine and enamel. At higher power, it removes caries lesions. It can enhance the success of restoration by increasing the bond strength of dental adhesives to the dentine and enamel. A carbon dioxide laser at 9,300 nm can also be used with fluoride for caries prevention. The advancement of technology allows the laser to be delivered in very short pulse durations and high repetition rates (frequency). Consequently, the laser can now be used with high peak power. The objective of this review is to discuss the effects and potential use of a 9,300 nm carbon dioxide laser on dental hard tissue.