• Journal of Periodontal and Implant Science
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• v.38 no.1
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• pp.67-74
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• 2008

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Er:YAG laser on microstructure and roughness of $TiO_2$ blasting implant surface. Materials and Methods: Ten $TiO_2$ blasting implant were used in this experiment. One implant was control group, and nine $TiO_2$ blasting implant surfaces were irradiated with Er:YAG laser under 100 mJ/pulse, 140 mJ/pulse, and 180 mJ/pulse condition for 1 min, 1.5 min, and 2 min respectively. Optical interferometer and scanning electron microscopy was utilized to measure roughness and microstructure of specimens. Results: The surface roughness was decreased after Er:YAG laser irradiation in all groups, but there was no significant difference. 100 mJ/pulse and 140 mJ/pulse group did not alter the $TiO_2$ blasting implant surface in SEM study while 180 mJ/pulse group altered the $TiO_2$ blasting implant surface. Implant surfaces showed melting, microfracture and smooth surface in 180 mJ/pulse group. Conclusion: Detoxification of implant surface using Er:YAG laser must be irradiated with proper energy output and irradiation time to prevent implant surface alteration.