Effects of CO2 laser irradiation on gingiva.
A CO2 laser (Coherent Medical Model 400) was used to irradiate the gingival tissue of a cynomolgous monkey to determine laser effects on the epithelium and underlying connective tissue. A focal length of 400 mm and a 10-watt power setting at 0.2- and 0.5-second exposure was used. Biopsy results indicated that a 0.2-second duration of CO2 laser irradiation was inadequate to completely de-epithelialize the gingival tissue. A 0.5-second exposure exhibited complete epithelial destruction with little or no disturbance of the underlying connective tissue layer and viable connective tissue 1.0 mm below the impact site.
D000818:Animals; D003238:Connective Tissue / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000528:radiation effects; D005881:Gingiva / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D005890:Gingivectomy / Q000379:methods*; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008252:Macaca fascicularis; D008297:Male; D013997:Time Factors