A clinical study on cavities' preparation of subgingival wedge-shape defects using Er:YAG laser

Objective The aim of the study was to assess the clinical use of Er:YAG laser in the preparation of the teeth with subgingival wedge-shape defects.Methods The data of twenty patients were collected.All patients had at least two teeth with similar subgingival wedge-shape defects.In the control group,cavities were prepared with bur,gingiva was removed by high frequency electrotome.On the contrast,the cavities' preparation and gingivectomy were performed by the laser in the experimental group.The degree of the patients' uncomfortable feel was recorded with VAS,and all patients were followed up for 12 months after surgery.Results The average VAS value of the experimental group(42.3±12.1) was statistically lower than that of the control group(61.1±17.0)(P0.01).One week later,one case in the control group suffered from gingival recession and dental hypersensitiveness.Twelve months later,the margins of two and three cases were unsealed and stained respectively in the experimental group and the control group(P0.05).Conclusion Using Er:YAG laser irradiation in cavities' preparation and gingivectomy for the teeth with subgingival wedge-shape defects can significantly reduce the uncomfortable feel during the treatment process,and doesn't adversely affect the qualities of restorations.