In patients with chronic periodontitis, a combination of a single application of PDT (using a 980 nm laser and MB) and LLLT provide additional benefit to SRP in terms of clinical parameters 6 months following the intervention.

Background:The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of diode laser alone and in combination with desensitizing toothpastes in occluding dentinal tubules (both partially occluded and completely occluded tubules) by scanning electron microscope (SEM).Materials and Methods:Fifty human teeth were extracted, cervical cavities were prepared and etched with 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and smear layer was removed to expose the tubules. The teeth were divided into five groups: Group I – Application of NovaMin-formulated toothpaste, Group II – Application of Pro-Argin™-formulated toothpaste, Group III – Application of diode laser in noncontact mode, Group IV – NovaMin-formulated toothpaste followed by laser irradiation, and Group V – Pro-Argin™-formulated toothpaste followed by laser irradiation. After treatment, quantitative analysis of occluded dentinal tubules was done by SEM analysis.Results:The mean values of percentages of total occlusion of dentinal tubules in Groups I, II, III, IV, and V were 92.73% ± 1.38, 90.67% ± 1.86, 96.57% ± 0.64, 97.3% ± 0.68, and 96.9% ± 6.08, respectively. Addition of diode laser (Groups III, IV, and V) yielded a significant occlusion of the dentinal tubules when compared to desensitizing toothpastes alone (Groups I and II).Conclusion:Diode laser (Group III) has shown more efficacy in occluding dentinal tubules when compared with desensitizing toothpastes which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Among the five groups, NovaMin + diode laser (Group IV) showed the highest percentage of occluded dentinal tubules.

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Background: Proper gingival retraction improves the prognosis of crowns and bridges with sub gingival finishlines.Use of lasers assists the operator to achieve proper retraction with good clinical results.Aims: The present study was intended to assess the amount of lateral gingival retraction achieved quantitatively by using diode lasers. Settings and Design:Study was carried on 20 patients attended to a dental institution that underwent root canal treatment and indicated for fabrication of crowns. Material and Methods:Gingival retraction was carried out on 20 teeth and elastomeric impressions were obtained. Models retrieved from the impressions were sectioned and the lateral distance between finish line and the marginal gingival was measured using tool makers microscope. Retraction was measured in mid buccal, mesio buccal and disto buccal regions. Statistical Analysis:The values obtained were used to calculate the mean lateral retraction in microns. Results:Mean retraction values of 399.5 µm, 445.5 µm and 422.5µm were obtained in mid buccal, mesio buccal and disto buccal regions respectively. Conclusions:Gingival Retraction achieved was closer to the thickness of sulcular epithelium and greater than the minimum required retraction of 200um.

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