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

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