Er:Yag Laser Effects On Caries Prevention In Deciduous Enamel

This study aimed to investigate the changes in crystalline structure and resistance to demineralization of deciduous enamel treated with Er:YAG laser and fluoride. Fifty deciduous enamel samples were assigned to five groups (n=10) according to the treatment process:(C):contrl; (L): irradiated with Er:YAG laser; (F): treated with 2% sodium fluoride solution; (LF): Pre-irradiated surfaces with Er:YAG laser subjected to 2% sodium fluoride solution and (FL): laser irradiation was performed on the fluoridated enamel surface. Before and after a 3d pH-cycling regime, the samples were evaluated using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the Vickers microhardness test. Microhardness analysis showed that all treatment groups exhibited significantly lower microhardness loss after pH cycling compared to the control group, with the LF group demonstrating the smallest microhardness loss. No statistically significant differences were observed in microhardness loss among the L, F and FL group. The SEM evaluation revealed pronounced enamel surface demineralization in the control group, while all treatment groups maintained intact enamel surface morphology without significant structural damage. Er:YAG laser combined with fluoride can enhance the acid resistance of deciduous enamel.