Caries Removal in Primary Teeth Using Er:YAG Laser

The Er:YAG laser offers a virtually painless alternative to conventional methods of caries removal, and its adoption in clinical practice could greatly reduce children's fear of going to the dentist. Caries removal is one of the leading reasons for dentist visits among children, and many children become fearful at the mere thought of a drill touching their teeth, before they even hear the sound. Laser caries removal could go a long way toward eliminating children's fear of going to the dentist; it is virtually painless, and most children are able to get through the entire procedure without needing local anesthesia.

Mechanical removal of carious lesions with a rotating handpiece and bur instruments is the most often used approach for treating dental caries because it is cost-effective, timesaving, and simple. However, these procedures have many drawbacks, including the potential for removing healthy tooth structures, vibration and noise, which can cause the patient anxiety and pain, thus necessitating local anesthesia.