Sem and Bacteriological Evidence of Laser-Activated Irrigation, Compared to Ultrasonic Activated Irrigation

Pulp tissue debridement and eradication of microorganisms from an infected root canal system before obturation is a primary focus of endodontic treatment and the best predictor for the long-term success of endodontic treatment. The purpose of this in vitro laboratory study was to evaluate pulp tissue debridement and the disinfection efficacy of two different Er;Cr:YSGG laser units, with 2790 nm wavelength, compared to Ultrasonic Activated Irrigation (UAI) in root canals infected with Enterococcus faecalis. The different laser-activated irrigation protocols showed multiple areas of remaining bacteria, biofilm, tissue, and thermal ablation. The laser fiber tips also displayed significant tip degradation after use which might affect efficacy. While UAI showed similar results. In this in-vitro study, laser-activated irrigation using Er;Cr:YSGG technology and UAI were inefficient in eliminating pulp tissue from difficult-to-reach areas and Enterococcus faecalis from infected root canals.