Irradiation of root cervical dentin by using the Nd:YAG laser in vitro study and scanning electron microscopy

The dentin hypersensitivity occurs as a result of the dentine exposition to the oral environment, due to loss or removal of enamel or cementum, or both. The hypersensitivity can persist, unless the sealing of the dentin tubules be carried out. Several treatments have been considered, but with less satisfactory and only temporary results. Among these treatments we can cite methods that promote the mechanical occlusion by deposition of substances inside of tubules, by topic application. Nowadays, among the treatments studied, there is the use of lasers, which leads to better clinical efficiency by promoting fusion and re-solidification of the dentin surface, obliterating total or partially the dentin tubules. This in-vitro study was carried out in order to evaluate the efficiency of the Nd:YAG laser in promoting the fusion and re-solidification of the dentin surface, and to evaluate parameters of irradiation typically used, comparing results using photoinitiator with those without it. By observation of the dentin surface, using Scanning Electron Microscopy, it was found extensive areas of fusion and re-solidification, in those groups with photoinitiator, being this technique an efficient resource in the treatment of the dentin hypersensitivity. (author)