Adhesion of Er:YAG laser-irradiated dentin and composite resins:: Application of various treatments on irradiated surface

Background and Objectives: The investigation of adhesion between an Er:YAG laser-irradiated surface and composite resin is very important to ensure the best clinical results. The purpose of this investigation is to determine if the application of various treatments on Er:YAG laser-irradiated dentin surface affects the tensile bond strength between dentin and composite resins. Study Design/Materials and Methods: In this investigation, the application of phosphoric acid, ultrasonic scaler, air-scaler, and air-powder polisher were tested as techniques to increase the bond strength of composite resins to Er:YAG laser-irradiated dentin surface. Results: The tensile bond strength of the air-powder polished group was highest, at 18.45 +/- 3.72 MPa, and the lowest value was that of the only laser-irradiated group, at 12.56 +/- 4.38 MPa. Conclusions: The bond strengths in treated with air-powder polished group and phosphric acid etched group were significantly higher than that of the group in laser irradiation alone. Lasers (C) 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.