Effect of Laser Treatment on Surface Morphology of Indirect Composite Resin: Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) Evaluation

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the Scanning electron microscope (SEM) of indirect composite conditioned by Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Er:YAG) laser, Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Nd:YAG) laserand Carbon Dioxide (CO2) laser. Methods: 18 indirect composite blocks (GC Gradia DA2, Japan) with 15 × 10 × 10 mm dimensions were made. The bonding surface of these blocks were polished, then the samples were divided into six groups as follow: Er:YAG laser with output power of 0.5 W and frequency of 10 Hz, Nd:YAG laser with output power of 0.25, 0.5 W and frequency of 10 Hz, CO2 laser with output power of 0.5 W and frequency of 10 Hz and 5 Hz, and no treatment. Then, the surfaces were evaluated by SEM. Results: Irregularities were observed in Er:YAG laser samples compared to control group that produced suitable retention for adhesion of cements. Nd:YAG and CO2 lasers showed melting areas. Conclusion: Among different lasers, Er:YAG laser can be used as an alternative technique for surface treatment of indirect composites.