Influence of Diode Lasers on the Apical Leakage in Endodontic Treatment

The outcome of root canal treatment is based on efficient disinfection of the root canal system and prevention of reinfection. Current chemomechanical cleaning methods do not always achieve these goals, and insufficient root canal disinfection is the main reason for endodontic failure. The aim of our in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of diode laser irradiation (?=660 nm and ?=970 nm) on the intracanal dentin and their interference in the apical seal of filled root canals. 48 human single rooted teeth were randomly assigned into 4 groups. Root canal preparation was done using ProTaper Universal rotary system up to F3. 2 % Sodium hypochlorite, 17 % EDTA and distilled water were used as irrigants. The laser irradiation was performed at the end of the traditional endodontic preparation and teeth were filled with gutta-percha and AH- plus. The apical leakage was report on mm. Statistical analysis showed that the laser-treated groups had significantly less leakage in apical third than the control group. Certain lasers can help in removing the smear layer and debris and can modify the morphology of the root canal wall for better root canal sealing.