Evaluation of the effect of ER: YAG laser on apical microleakage (in vitro study)

Abstract

Apicoectomy and retrograde filling is indicated when conventional endodontic treatment is impossible or failed to achieve apical seal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ER: YAG laser on apical microleakage. Materials and Methods: Sixty extracted single-rooted teeth were used in this study. The roots were divided into six groups. Group 1: apicoectomy by fissure bur, and apical cavities prepared by round bur, then cavities were filled with MTA. Group 2: the roots preparations and fillings were the same as group 1, then the apical areas were treated by Er:YAG Laser. Group 3: apicoectomy by fissure bur, and apical cavities prepared by ultrasound retrotip and cavities were filled with MTA. Group 4: the roots preparations and fillings were the same as group 3, then the apical areas were treated by Er:YAG Laser. Group 5: the roots obturation with gutta percha, then the apices were resected using Er:YAG Laser. Group 6: the roots apices were resected with Er:YAG Laser, then the canals were obturates with gutta percha. Apical microleakage was measured by methylene blue dye penetration technique. Results: Significant difference between the groups. Group 1 shows the best apical seal, while group 5 shows the worse apical sealing ability. Conclusion: Apicoectomy by bur is better than apicoectomy by laser, and apical cavity prepared by bur is better than prepared by US. The use of ER: YAG laser in apicoectomy is preferred to be done before obturation of the root canal with gutta percha.