Abstract
The use of Er:YAG (erbium : yttrium aluminum garnet and Er,Cr:YAG (erbium, chromium : yttrium scandium gallium garnet) lasers for tooth preparation has received much attention in recent years. Several advantages have been attributed to these devices, including a reduced need for local anesthesia for tooth preparation, less vibration to the patient, and more conservative cavity preparation. Another purported advantage has been the contention that adhesion to tooth structure is enhanced compared with other means of cavity preparation, even to the point of eliminating the need for conditioning and/or etching prior to adhesive system application. As the use of bonded, esthetic restorations has increased, it is important to know if this purported bonding advantage is valid. This Critical Appraisal examines evidence in the peer‐reviewed scientific literature that contradicts this contention, and discusses concerns regarding the use of lasers in cavity preparation.
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