2009 Volume 9 Issue 2 Pages 19-22
Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine condition concerning fusion of inorganic material to enamel and porcelain surfaces by means of Nd:YAG laser.
Materials and Methods: Iron oxide was added to dental porcelain material in a range from 0.6 to 5.0% by weight. Slurry was placed on the human enamel and dental porcelain surfaces and Nd:YAG laser was exposed with varying energy and exposure time periods.
Results: Melting of material occurred with the following irradiation condition; 40 W for 4 s for 0.6% iron oxide, 20 W for 2 s for 2.5% and 5% iron oxide. Fusion of the material occurred with specific conditions. However, degeneration or degradation of tooth substrate also was detected with high energy and extended exposure period.
Conclusion: It was possible to fuse an inorganic substance to enamel surface using Nd-YAG laser. Further investigation is required about materials, type of laser, and irradiation condition.
