Can Er:Yag Laser Remove Zirconia Crown On Titanium?

This study examined the effects of adhesives and water content on Er:YAG laser debonding time and residual bonding strength between zirconia and titanium abutments of varying thicknesses. 160 titanium blocks and zirconia squares (1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm) were prepared and divided into four groups (n = 40) based on cement type: Ketac™ Cem Easymix Glass Ionomer Luting Cement (GIC), GIC with 35 µL of water added (GICW), Resin Cement Clearfil SA Luting (SAC), and SAC with 35 µL of water added (SACW). Each group was further divided by zirconia thickness (n = 10). After 24-hour storage, Er:YAG laser was used to debond specimens, recording debonding time. Specimens not debonded within 2 minutes underwent shear bond strength testing. The 2 mm control group was tested without laser. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. GIC and GICW showed higher debonding rates at 1 mm and 2 mm, while SAC and SACW exhibited minimal debonding, especially at 3 mm. Debonding time varied significantly among groups, with GIC and GICW performing better at thinner thicknesses. Residual shear bond strength was similar for GIC, GICW, and SACW, but SAC (1 mm, 2 mm) showed significantly lower strength compared to SAC (3 mm) and the control group. GIC and GICW facilitated easier laser debonding at thinner zirconia thicknesses (1 mm, 2 mm), while SAC and SACW required more time. Adding water (SACW) partially improved resin cement debonding, but further optimization is needed to balance bonding efficacy and debonding efficiency.