Low-power irradiation of Er: YAG laser using broom-type probe for dentine hypersensitivity

Abstract

This study was performed to examine the possibility of Er:YAG laser for dentine hypersensitivity treatment using a novel laser probe; broom type probe. The morphological change of dentinal tubules of bovine dentine plate after low power laser irradiation (5 or 10 mJ, 10 pps) or boiling was observed by SEM. Fifty teeth from 13 patients aged 31-54 years with complain of dentine hypersensitivity were treated by laser irradiation at 25-35 mJ, 10 pps using the broomed probe. Clinical effect of laser irradiation was verified by the examination of sensitivity rate to cold water, air blow and mechanical stimuli of explorer at before, immediately after, and 1,3,5 and 12 weeks after laser irradiation. The ratio of blockade and reduction of dentinal tubules after laser irradiation was 16-61%. The accumulation due to vaporization of water in dentinal tubules and degeneration or coagulation of organinc elements at the site of blockade and reduction were superficially described by SEM. Remarkable clinical improvement of dentine hypersensitivity by laser was admitted but relapse was also detected partially. The present study suggests low power irradiation of Er:YAG laser would be effective on dentine hypersensitivity, but a partial limitation of laser treatment for dentine hypersensitivity may be exited.