Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy Analysis of Erbium, Chromium:Yttrium-scandium-gallium-garnet-treated Enamel Surfaces: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

The present study evaluated the effects of erbium, chromium:yttrium-scandium-gallium-garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser on the weight percentage of mineral content of enamel when etched at three different power settings. Total 20 extracted molar teeth were taken as samples. Enamel slabs were prepared by sectioning the crown from the buccal and lingual aspect with a double-sided diamond disk at slow speed. The 40 specimens were divided into four groups, i.e., control, 1 W, 2 W, and 3 W of 10 specimens each and then irradiation by Er,Cr:YSGG was done. The elements evaluated were calcium (Ca), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), and phosphorus (P). The mean weights of these minerals and the Ca:P ratio in each slab were measured by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis (EDAX). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Turkey's test was performed with the help of critical difference (CD) or least significant difference (LSD) at 5 and 1% level of significance. There was no significant differences among the four groups for the five minerals and for the calcium:phosphorous ratio (p > 0.05). Photomicrographs by scanning electron microscopy observations revealed that the surfaces exposed to a 3 watt irradiation showed more roughness than those of the 1 watt and 2 watt groups. The Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation of enamel at 1 W, 2 W, and 3 W had no significant effect on the mean percentage weights of Ca, K, Mg, Na, and P or the Ca/P ratio in any group. Constriction with conviction is the new motto of restorative dentistry. Er,Cr:YSGG not only fulfills the aim but also is proving to alter the surface properties by recrystallization and change in composition making the prepared surface caries resistant.