Jeff,

Why not used the FRP Nd:YAG to detect for caries when it won’t “prep” the tooth–only remove organic debris?

At 3.00 watts 10Hz 100usec it is very good at finding decay even through enamel.

Using AA it seems to me is similar to using erbium to “detect” decay…..

Bob

Bob,
I use AA as a quick technique to remove stain in grooves, old sealants and existing composite to detect caries.
Erbium would destroy and remove more tooth structure and take twenty times longer. I use the Nd:YAG routinely to remove deep dentinal caries, pulp capping, some root caries (AA creates bleeding, problems for bonding unless you shield the gingiva well)
Here is a 50 year old.

Non-smoker. I want to remove stains and sealant, to detect caries or clean the enamel to seal.
Once stain was removed, discovered #4 round bur size caries. This preparation was done with only AA 27micron Aluminum oxide. Erbium could then be used to remove remaining caries. I only use the Nd:YAG in cases with Local. I do this cases w/o LA.

The case was then restored with dentin bonding and composite.
I’ve done thousands of these restorations, one of the reasons I purchases an Erbium was to be able to finish caries removal w/o LA on these type of cases.
There are many different ways for diagnosis, I haven’t used an explorer as the definative test in years.
Case selection determines my treatment. I have alot of laser and non-laser choices.
Jeff

Nice combination of techniques Jeff. This is one of the reasons I don’t charge extra for the use of the laser (like some do around here). I want to be able to pick up the instrument of MY choice for any given situation. High speed, low speed, aa, erbium, nd:yag – I like having them all available!

Al,
I moved last year. New design gave me a little more room. Placed the AA inside rear cabinets. I have 2 PerioLases and an Opus Duo. Try to schedule patient when need Erbium in correct room or will move patient instead of moving Erbium. Since October have had two Duos (Had one from company for my demos/lectures). They took it back Tuesday, was nice having both type of lasers in each of my operatories. I place the Erbiums behind the NdYAGs, find the PerioLase easier to move. The PerioLase is always in position to use, roll away when need the Erbium, then pull the Erbium into position. My operatories seem to keep getting smaller.
Jeff