Intrapulpar temperature variation in primary teeth during cavity preparation using: Er:YAG laser and conventional high-speed drill

Abstract

Increases of temperatures superior than 5-5.5°C can compromise the pulp vitality. The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the variation of the pulp temperature in primary teeth during the cavity preparation. Twelve primary lower incisors (Human Tooth Bank-FOUSP) were divided in 4 groups (n=3): cavity preparations were performed at buccal surface, refrigerated by air-water spray, during 20sec, using #1090 diamond burr in highspeed drill in carious-free incisors (G I) and carious incisors (G II); or Er:YAG laser (2.94μm)(KaVo 3)(LELO-FOUSP), with 6Hz repetition rate/ 600mJ energy as orientated by manufacturer, in carious-free incisors (G III) and carious incisors (G IV). The variation of temperature was measured using digital oscilloscope and thermocouple type K placed inside the pulpar chamber, simultaneously the teeth was kept under water thermal bath during the procedures. The temperatures rises were less than 4ºC in all cavities preparations in different groups, the variation of temperature in laser and conventional high-speed drill groups showed similar values. The groups of carious teeth showed higher increase of temperature than carious-free teeth. The Er:YAG laser demonstrated be a safe alternative for cavities preparations in primary teeth, since that using effective and safety parameters by qualified and trained professionals.