Argon Laser Effects on Escherichia coli in Root Canals with 100-μm and 200-μm Fiber Optics
Abstract
The purpose of this pilot study was to determine if the argon laser could sterilize the root canals of extracted teeth contaminated with a known bacteria. Fifteen extracted teeth were inoculated with a specific strain of Escherichia coli . The canals were subjected to an argon laser and then cultured. The conclusion was that the argon laser, using the 100-μm fiber, was more effective than the 200-μm fiber for obtaining a sterilized root canal under the test conditions.