Enhancement of Argon Laser Effect on Dissolution and Loss of Human Enamel

Abstract

ABSTRACT Previous studies have recorded the reduction of caries-like lesions in extracted human teeth that have been irradiated with CO2 laser. Other studies have shown a decrease in dissolution of enamel that has been irradiated with Argon laser. This study was conducted to see if there are additive effects between argon laser irradiation and those of chemical inhibitors, ethane-l-hydroxy-l,l-diphosphonic acid (EHDP) and dodecylamine HC1 (DAC) on the loss of tooth structure due to demineralization of dental enamel. The amount of demineralization was determined in a rotating disk assembly (0.1 M acetate buffer, pH 4.5) for 24 hr and the results determined and plotted against the nonlased control using microradiography and computerized imaging. The amount of tooth structure lost to demineralization in 4.5 pH acid bath in a 24-hr period was reduced from approximately 140 μm to nearly zero when Argon lased enamel was exposed to DAC or EHDP.