Infrared laser light reduces loading time of dental implants: a Raman spectroscopic study.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to assess, through near-infrared Raman spectroscopy (NIRS), the incorporation of hydroxyapatite of calcium (CHA; approximately 960 cm(1))--on the healing bone around dental implants submitted or not to low-level laser therapy (LLLT) (lambda830 nm).


BACKGROUND
The process of maturation of the bone is important for the success of dental implants, as it improves the fixation of the implant to the bone, allowing the wearing of a prosthesis. LLLT has been suggested as a mean of improving bone healing because of its biomodulatory capabilities.


METHODS
Fourteen rabbits received a titanium implant on the tibia; eight of them were irradiated with lambda830-nm laser (seven sessions at 48-h intervals, 21.5 J/cm(2) per session, 10 mW, phi approximately 0.0028 cm(2), 85 J/cm(2) treatment dose), and six acted as control. The animals were sacrificed at 15, 30, and 45 days after surgery. Specimens were routinely prepared for Raman spectroscopy. Twelve readings were taken on the bone around the implant.


RESULTS
The results showed significant differences in the concentration of CHA on irradiated and control specimens at both 30 and 45 days after surgery (p < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
It is concluded that LLLT does improve bone healing, and this can be safely assessed by Raman spectroscopy.
Lopes
Cibelle B
CB
IP&D and Department of Dentistry, FCS, UNIVAP, S. J. Campos, São Paulo, Brazil.
Pinheiro
Antônio L B
AL
Sathaiah
Sokki
S
Duarte
Janaína
J
Cristinamartins
Maria
M
D000818:Animals; D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible / Q000378:metabolism; D015921:Dental Implants; D006882:Hydroxyapatites / Q000378:metabolism; D007834:Lasers; D008297:Male; D016348:Osseointegration / Q000528:radiation effects*; D011817:Rabbits; D013059:Spectrum Analysis, Raman; D013977:Tibia / Q000601:surgery; D014025:Titanium
D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible; D015921:Dental Implants; D006882:Hydroxyapatites; D014025:Titanium