Er:YAG laser: antimicrobial effects in the root canals of dogs' teeth with pulp necrosis and chronic periapical lesions.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

Our goal in this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of Er:YAG laser applied after biomechanical preparation of the root canals of dog's teeth with apical periodontitis.

BACKGROUND DATA:

Various in vitro studies have reported effective bacterial reduction in infected root canals using Er:YAG laser. However, there is no in vivo research to support these results.

METHODS:

Forty root canals of dogs' premolar teeth with pulp necrosis and chronic periapical lesions were used. An initial microbiological sample was taken, and after biomechanical preparation was carried out, a second microbiological sample was taken. The teeth were divided into two groups: Group I-biomechanical preparation was taken of root canals without Er:YAG laser application; Group II-biomechanical preparation was taken of root canals with Er:YAG laser application using 140-mJ input, 63-mJ output/15 Hz. After coronal sealing, the root canals were left empty for 7 days at which time a third microbiological sample was taken. The collected material was removed from the root canal with a #40 K file and placed in transport media. It was serially diluted and seeded on culture dishes selective for anaerobes, aerobes, and total streptococci. Colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) were counted.

RESULTS:

Groups I and II showed an increase of CFU/mL for all microorganisms 7 days after treatment, being statistically significant for anaerobes in Group I and for anaerobes and total streptococci in Group II. When comparing CFU/mL of Groups I and II, there was a statistically significant increase after 7 d for total streptococci in Group II.

CONCLUSION:

Er:YAG laser applied after biomechanical preparation did not reduce microorganisms in the root canal system.

• Authors: Mário R Leonardo, M G Guillén-Carías, J D Pécora, I Y Ito, L A B Silva
• Journal: Photomedicine and laser surgery (Photomed Laser Surg) Vol. 23 Issue 3 Pg. 295-9 (Jun 2005) ISSN: 1549-5418 [Print] United States
• PMID: 15954818 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Animals
• Chronic Disease
• Dental Pulp Cavity (microbiology, radiation effects)
• Dental Pulp Necrosis (radiotherapy)
• Dogs
• Female
• Laser Therapy
• Male
• Periapical Abscess (radiotherapy)