Effects of Er, Cr:YSGG Laser irradiation on endodontics system permeability

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation on root dentin permeability. Twenty extracted single-rooted teeth were instrumented with K-files and divided in four groups, according to laser fluences: GI (non-irradiated), GII (12.5 mJ/pulse; 2.8 J/cm2), GIII (25 mJ/pulse; 8.5 J/cm2) and GIV (75 mJ/pulse; 16.98 J/cm2). Lased groups had an association of irrigating solution EDTA-T and Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation, which was performed at 20 Hz repetition rate without airwater spray, with four helicoidal movements during approximately 5 seconds. NDP associated with rhodamine B dye was used to evaluate dentin permeability. After the experimental period, the samples were transversely cut into six 2.0 mm thick slices for subsequent reading using the ImageLab software. The results showed that dentin permeability of root canals was decreased when exposed to Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation compared with non-irradiated samples, and this alteration was higher when higher fluences were applied. The cervical and middle thirds had permeability values statistically similar (p > 0.05) and significantly greater than the apical third. It can be concluded that the use of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation at the utilized parameters decreases dentin permeability, favoring the root canal sealing.