<title>Effect of laser parameters and mode on pulp surgery outcome</title>

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of localised laser pulp surgery in the canine model. Effects of laser parameters on treatment outcome were also investigated. Pulpal exposures 3mm in diameter were prepared in healthy teeth and left open to infection from the oral cavity for 72 hours. Pulpal tissue was then removed using a high speed handpiece with sterile irrigation, or a CO2laser. Teeth were monitored clinically, radiographically for 3 months.Results for each criterion were evaluated on a scale of O-(-2). After sacrifice, histological assessment was made soft and hard tissue response. Results for each category were evaluated on a standard scale of O-(-2). All evaluations were performed by 1 blinded, pre-standardised clinician. Statistical assessment using the chi-square test and Fisher' s Exact Test (2-tail) associated laser treatment with a significantly better (p<O.OO1) clinical, radiographic and histological treatment outcome.