Tooth pulp response to the irradiation of Nd: YAG laser on class five cavities was examined in this study. The cavities were prepared with a standardized diamond point so that the thickness of remaining dentin was 350 to 550μm. The experimental periods were 3, 7 and 28 days after the irradiation of continuous Nd: YAG laser wave (1w 5sec, 1w 10sec, 5w 1sec and 10w 1sec) on the cavities.
The pulp wound recovered with time. After 28 days, the tooth pulp tissue returned nearly to normal and the secondary dentin formation was found under the remaining dentin. More secondary dentin was formed in the laser-irradiated group than in the non-irradiated control group.
