Product Code: JLA_14_4_248

Authors:
Ma´rcia Vieira Marcondes Guimara˜es
Post Doctor Research Fellow, Department of Prosthesis, Sao Paulo State University–UNESP, School of Dentistry, Sao Jose dos Campos-SP, Brazil

Walter Niccoli-Filho
Head of Academic Group of Studies and Research with Laser in Dentistry, Sao Paulo State University–UNESP, School of Dentistry, Sao Jose dos Campos-SP, Brazil

Marco Antonio Bottino
Department of Prosthesis, Sao Paulo State University–UNESP, School of Dentistry, Sao Jose dos Campos-SP, Brazil

Carlos Schwab
Department of Physics at Advanced Studies Institute–IEAv, Lasers Division, Sao Jose dos Campos-SP, Brazil

In this study we analyzed possible damages that vaporization from laser radiation could cause to implant material. Fifteen standard titanium implants, measuring 3.75 mm in diameter by 7 mm in length, were placed into the upper and lower jaws of three dogs according to Bra·nemark’s system. After osseointegration, all implants were exposed. In group I (control) conventional exposure with a punch was used; in group II, a CO₂ laser with 2 W (power density: 256 W/cm²; fluency: 0.077 J/cm², and a pulse mode of 0.30 ms) was used, and in group III 4 W (power density: 512 W/cm², fluency: 0.154 J/cm², and a pulse mode of 0.30 ms) was used. After vaporization, the cover screws were removed and sent for metallographic examination. The results showed that cover screws irradiated with 2 and 4 W power caused no superficial or microstructural alteration. The results also showed that the prescribed power densities, fluencies, and the use of the pulse mode were suitable for exposing implants without damage to tissue or implant material. © 2002 Laser Institute of America.