Evaluation of the clinical success of class I cavities prepared by an Er:YAG laser-2-year follow-up study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the success of class I occlusal restorations prepared by an Er:YAG laser after 24 months. Sixty-five teeth of 30 patients were included in the study, and an Er:YAG laser emitting at a wavelength of 2.94 mu m was used for the class I cavity preparations with not more than 113 of the mesiodistal width of the occlusal surfaces of each tooth. All cavities were restored with a light-cured composite resin, following a single bond application. After the baseline examination, restorations were reevaluated by the same experienced clinician after 24 months, using modified Ryge criteria. After 2 years, 53 restorations were reviewed in 26 patients. None of the teeth showed signs of secondary caries. Except for 2 teeth subjected to endodontic treatment due to pulpal inflammation, all other restorations were present, and the teeth were vital. Slight marginal discoloration was observed in 5 restorations, having a beta score. With its satisfactory acceptance by patients, class I cavity preparation with an Er:YAG laser would be a useful alternative for other conventional methods, especially for teeth which are to be restored with composite resins. (J Dent Sci, 3(4) : 193-198, 2008)