Root canal preparation by a combined apparatus of the carbon dioxide laser and the water-jet scaler

―1. Scanning electron microscopic observation―

Abstract

Abstract : Until today, conventional cleaning and shaping of canal spaces involve the use of hand instruments (reamers or files) with irrigation, and sometimes with the rotary or ultrasonic instruments. But these procedures result in the formation of the endodontic smear layer consisting of dentin shavings, organic tissue remnants and microorganisms. Many types of lasers have been suggested as an aid in root canal preparation.

 In this study, a combined apparatus of the continuous wave CO₂ Laser and the Waterjet Scaler was used to test the ability of this apparatus to clean and shape the canal dentin. The extracted human teeth with necrotic root canal or the vital teeth with periodontal diseases were sectioned longitudinally. Then, the one half was treated by this apparatus, and the other half was used as the control (non-treated). After that, these teeth were fixed, dehydrated and examined by scanning electron microscopy.

 The results demonstrated that this apparatus was capable of removing the pulpal tissue, endodontic smear layer and could occasionally alter dentin walls (opened dentin tubules or melted hydroxyapatite). More research is needed to determine to establish a treating method to prepare canal walls.