Characterization of enamel diffusion modulated by Er: YAG laser

Abstract

Several studies have elucidated the preventive effect of lasers by strengthening enamel crystalline structure and/or blocking the diffusion pathways. However, the relative contribution of enamel diffusion (ED) for this effect remains a challenge. Therefore, we aimed to (1) quantify ED on natural surface (NS) and subsurface site-specifically (2) quantify diffusion in lased and normal enamel using Fluorescent Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP) technique (3) verify the role of organic matrix (OM) in laser induced retardation of enamel diffusion. The data showed that (1) ED varied widely site-specifically and NS possessed a unique diffusion characteristics (2) FRAP appears to be a potential technique for investigating diffusion-and Er:YAG laser treatment significantly retarded ED and (3) OM played a significant role in laser-induced retardation of diffusion. The results of this study are substantiating the a??organic blockinga?? theory as one of the major mechanisms involved in laser-induced caries prevention.