Subject. Our study evaluated the effectiveness of two methods for the preparation of wedge-shaped defects of the teeth before performing aesthetic restorations: the traditional method of preparation and using Er,Cr:YSGG laser in three different modes. Evaluation of the effectiveness of these methods was carried out the next day after treatment, as well as after 6 and 12 months.
Objectives. To evaluate the clinical condition of restorations using the Er,Cr:YSGG laser and the traditional preparation method.
Methodology. In study i 80 patients were divided into 2 equal groups. The 1st group included patients with wedge-shaped teeth defects, who were prepared by the traditional method, the 2nd group included patients with wedge-shaped teeth defects, who were prepared with the Waterlase Iplus erbium laser (Biolase, USA). The second group was divided into 3 subgroups (13–14 people each), depending on the preparation mode used. All wedge-shaped defects were restored using Filtek Ultimate Flowable and Filtek Ultimate (3M ESPE, USA) composite material with preconditioning with 37% phosphoric acid and application of Adper Single Bond 2 adhesive (3M ESPE, USA).
The condition of the restorations was assessed according to G. Ryge's clinically modified criteria on the next day after treatment, after 6 and 12 months.
Results. Immediately after treatment and after 6 months, the condition of the restored teeth in both groups of traditional and laser preparations was not changed. The first changes in the state of the restorations appeared after 12 months. None of the restorations fell out during the entire treatment period.
Conclusion. Restorations after the treatment of wedge-shaped defects with the Er,Cr:YSGG laser in accordance with G. Ryge's clinical modified criteria for 12 months do not change in 90% of cases and have ALPHA scores for all criteria; with the traditional method of preparation – in 87.5% of cases.
