In vitro temperature change at the dentin/pulpal interface by using conventional visible light versus argon laser.
OBJECTIVE
The argon laser has been promoted as a competing technology to multi-wavelength visible light as a curing source for dental restorative resins. However, the comparative thermal risk to the pulp between these two sources of light energy requires determination. The objective of this study is to compare the temperature induced at the dentin-pulpal interface between the argon laser and visible light curing unit at a variety of exposure regimens and conditions.


METHODS
In vitro temperatures were measured and recorded at the dentin-pulpal interface upon external light exposure. Independent variables included the dentin thickness, duration and waveform of exposure, and presence of composite resin.


RESULTS
In most instances, the argon laser resulted in less temperature rise on the pulpal-dentin interface.


CONCLUSIONS
The argon laser should not pose a serious thermal risk to the pulp if used at recommended energies.
Cobb
D S
DS
University of Iowa College of Dentistry, Iowa City, Iowa 5224, USA.
Dederich
D N
DN
Gardner
T V
TV
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001128:Argon; D001831:Body Temperature / Q000528:radiation effects*; D003188:Composite Resins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000528:radiation effects; D003737:Dental Cavity Preparation; D003764:Dental Materials / Q000737:chemistry / Q000528:radiation effects; D003782:Dental Pulp / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D003804:Dentin / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D008027:Light; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D012117:Resins, Synthetic / Q000737:chemistry / Q000528:radiation effects; D012307:Risk Factors; D013997:Time Factors
D003188:Composite Resins; D003764:Dental Materials; D012117:Resins, Synthetic; D001128:Argon; C039734:Durafill