In vitro evaluation of the effects of Er, Cr: YSGG, and diode lasers used in the treatment of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis on titanium surfaces

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Er,Cr:YSGG and diode laser on titanium (Ti) implant surface temperature change and surface roughness in the treatment of peri-implant disease. Methods: In our study, Ti implant models produced in the form of cylinders, with laser application on one flat surface and a slot for thermocouple placement on the other surface were used. To fix the Ti cylinders, a stand with finger support was produced from a 3D printer. The thermocouple was fixed to the hollow part of the Ti cylinders fixed on the stand and the Er,Cr:YSGG (2780nm) laser and (20 and 40 seconds; 1.5W, 2.5W and 3.5W), Diode laser (940nm) (20 and 40 seconds; 0.8W, 1.3W and 1.8W) were applied as contact. During the application, initial and final temperature values were recorded, and temperature changes were calculated. After the application, the models were examined in two and three dimensions by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Results: When the temperature changes of titanium cylinders during irradiation were evaluated, cylinders irradiated with a diode laser for 40 seconds were significantly higher than those irradiated for 20 seconds. In the Er,Cr:YSGG-treated cylinders, the temperature decreased in some samples and increased minimally in others. Profilometer values (Ra) were not statistically significant in terms of roughness for all groups. However, SEM images showed melting and an increase in the number of micropores on the treated surfaces. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in surface roughness in both laser applications. The use of a diode laser at high wattage without an additional cooling system approaches the threshold temperature, while the use of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser remained within the safe range in terms of temperature change.