In vitro Analysis Comparing Efficacy of Lasers and Desensitizing Agents on Dentin Tubule Occlusion: A Scanning Electron Microscope Study

Abstract

Dentinal hypersensitivity (DH), one of the commonest causes of dental pain, arises from exposure of dentinal tubules most commonly in the cervical region of the buccal and facial surfaces of the tooth in response to typically thermal, evaporative, tactile, osmotic or chemical stimulus. This study aims at evaluating the efficacy of Er,Cr:YSGG (dual lasers — hard and soft tissue) and diode lasers (soft tissue lasers) against clinically proven dentifrices prescribed by dentists, easily available over the counter, in treating DH. In 60 recently extracted human teeth, cervical cavities were prepared and etched with 17% EDTA to expose the tubules and eliminate smear layer. The teeth were further divided into groups: Er,Cr:YSGG laser, diode laser and commonly used dentifrices chosen on the basis of previous studies. After treatment, the teeth were subjected for scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis on the same day for quantitative and qualitative analysis of the specimens. Quantitative analysis of the SEM images was done using image analysis software. Er,Cr:YSGG showed superior results in terms of number of tubules per millimeter square, tubule diameter and tubular area. Laser treatment of exposed dentinal tubules with Er,Cr:YSGG promises a noninvasive, pain free and relatively safe treatment option.