Effect of Waterlase laser retrograde root-end cavity preparation on the integrity of root apices of extracted teeth as demonstrated by light microscopy

Aust Endod J. 2006 Apr;32(1):35-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1747-4477.2006.00006.x.

Abstract

Most endodontists use ultrasonic instruments for retrograde root-end cavity preparations even though they have been found to produce cracks. In this laboratory study, thirty-six randomly chosen roots had root-end cavity preparations made with the Waterlase laser and only one questionable intra-canal crack was found. It was concluded that the Waterlase laser when used to make endodontic root-end cavity preparations produces either no cracks, or a very low percentage (2.8%) of cracks.

MeSH terms

  • Apicoectomy / instrumentation
  • Coloring Agents
  • Dental High-Speed Equipment
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / methods*
  • Lasers / classification*
  • Methylene Blue
  • Microscopy
  • Pulpectomy / instrumentation
  • Pulpectomy / methods*
  • Root Canal Preparation / instrumentation
  • Root Canal Preparation / methods*
  • Tooth Apex / pathology
  • Tooth Apex / surgery*
  • Transillumination

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Methylene Blue