Effect of a new carbon dioxide laser and fluoride on occlusal caries progression in dental enamel

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a new TEA carbon dioxide (CO<SUB>2</SUB>) laser (.9.6 micrometers , 5-8 microsecond(s) pulse duration) combined with fluoride (F), on the inhibition of caries-like progression in occlusal surfaces in sound and demineralized enamel. Of 120 occlusal tooth surfaces (10 per group), 90 were partially demineralized in a 50% HAP/0.1 M Lactic acid/carbopol solution (pH 5.0). Samples were treated with/without the laser (2.0 j/cm<SUP>2</SUP> or 3.0 J/cm<SUP>2</SUP>) and/or F (as APF). Caries-like progression was tested by 5 days of pH cycling. Results were assessed by cross-sectional quantitative microradiography. The percent inhibition of caries progression with laser and/or F ranged from 87-170%. This new TEA CO<SUB>2</SUB> laser produced significant protective effect against lesion progression, and in combination with fluoride treatment lesion reversal occurred.