title: CO2 laser fusion of a vertical root fracture.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Vertical root fractures have had a poor prognosis and often have negative clinical and financial consequences for the patient.
  
  
  METHODS
  The author presents a case report in which he sealed a hairline vertical fracture associated with a vertical bone defect using a carbon dioxide, or CO2, laser at predetermined exposure parameters. Radiographic analysis at one year indicated good bone fill of the defect and a clinical examination revealed satisfactory healing.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The ability to seal vertical fractures with a CO2 laser may allow dental practitioners to extend the service of certain afflicted teeth and their restorations.
authors.affiliation: Department of Periodontics, Louisiana State University, School of Dentistry, New Orleans 70119-2799, USA.
authors.forename: D N
authors.initials: DN
authors.lastname: Dederich
mesh_terms: D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017075:Laser Coagulation; D008875:Middle Aged; D014082:Tooth Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*
chemical_list: D002245:Carbon Dioxide