Use of erbium lasers safe and effective for removal of ceramic restorations, may not harm abutment or prosthesis

This innovative approach aimed to assess the success rates, time efficiency, and safety of using Er,Cr:YSGG and Er:YAG lasers in diverse clinical scenarios. A retrospective analysis encompassing 29 clinical cases with a total of 52 abutments was conducted. Various factors, including prosthetic type and material, cement type, laser settings, retrieval time, and success, were meticulously evaluated.

The key findings of the study were:

• Over 95% success was achieved, with 50 out of 52 abutments successfully retrieved using Er,Cr:YSGG (N = 6) or Er:YAG (N = 46) lasers.

• The study included 13 lithium disilicate and 39 zirconia units, comprising veneers, single crowns, and fixed partial dentures (FPDs).

• Varying retrieval times were noted based on the restoration type, material thickness, cement type, and retention form/fitting. For instance, veneers took 2.25 ±0.61 minutes, crowns 6.89 ±8.07 minutes, and FPDs 25 ±10 minutes per abutment.

• Debonding time was influenced by laser settings, materials, and prosthesis types.

The study's findings endorse Erbium lasers as a safe and effective alternative to invasive methods for removing ceramic restorations. Notably, these lasers allowed for successful debonding without causing harm to the abutment or prosthesis. Laser-assisted debonding showcased its potential by enabling recementation of restorations during the same appointment, presenting a conservative and practical option for ceramic crown retrieval in clinical settings.

Reference:

Deeb, J. G., Grzech-Lesniak, K., & Bencharit, S. Evaluation of the effectiveness and practicality of erbium lasers for ceramic restoration removal: A retrospective clinical analysis. PloS One,2023;18(12):e0295957. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0295957