3D-Finite element and thermographic analysis of human teeth irradiated with ErCrYSGG

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyse surface and pulpal temperature changes in extracted human teeth subjected to Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation by using Finite Element Method (FEM) and comparing with thermal analysis made by thermocouple and thermocamera. Twelve extracted human molar teeth were selected and divided into three groups, according to the following Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation conditions: 2.8 J/cm2, 5.6 J/cm2 and 8.5 J/cm2. During laser irradiation, surface temperature was measured using a thermocamera (FLIR Systems - USA) and the pulpal temperature was monitored by means of a thermocouple type T placed in the pulpal chamber. For FEM analysis, it were constructed numerical models that reproduced a typical sound molar teeth and the analysis simulated the absorption of the laser energy and the heat transfer through the tooth in three dimensions, considering the same laser energy and conditions performed in thermocouple and thermocamera measurements. The results showed that theoretical FEM calculation showed good agreement with the thermocamera and thermocouple obtained data, simulating heat transfer and predicting the temperature increase. It was possible to conclude that 3D Finite Element Method gives good results that makes possible to understand the thermal behavior of dental material.