ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: This study assessed alterations in sensitivity among symptomatic noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) following the application of 3 low-level diode laser wavelengths before composite restoration. It analyzed the changes in dentin topography using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nine patients with 36 NCCLs were randomly assigned intra-individually to 4 groups based on the laser wavelength: laser simulation, 445 nm, 660 nm, and 970 nm. Cavity preparation, irradiation, and composite restoration were performed for each lesion. Sensitivity to cold stimuli was recorded using a visual analog scale (VAS) before the intervention (baseline) and at 1 day, 14 days, 1-, 3-, and 6-month. Pulp sensibility was recorded using an electrical pulp tester (EPT) at baseline, before treatment, and at 3- and 6-month. Additionally, an in vitro examination was performed on 12 extracted human molars to yield 12 dentin discs. Each disc was randomly divided into 4 quadrants to receive the same laser wavelengths to determine the diameters of the tubules using SEM. Results were analyzed statistically for clinical studies by the Friedman test, while ANOVA (RM-ANOVA) was conducted in-vitro, followed by the Bonferroni test in the case of significance (P < .05). RESULTS: VAS readings decreased across all groups, with a significant decrease observed for 660 nm and 970 nm from 14 days to 6-month, while at 445 nm there was a significant decrease at 6-month compared to the control (P < .05). EPT showed a significant decrease in pain threshold levels at 660 nm and 970 nm at 3- and 6-month, while 445 nm showed a significant decrease at 6-month compared to the control (P < .05). The mean tubular diameter at 445 nm decreased, with no significant difference from the control, whereas a significant decrease was found at 660 nm and 970 nm compared to the control (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Prior to composite restoration in symptomatic NCCLs, diode lasers with a wavelength of 660 nm showed the highest reduction in sensitivity, followed by 970 nm, whereas 445 nm diode lasers showed the least reduction. Additionally, diode lasers with wavelengths of 660 and 970 nm reduced the width of the dentinal tubules (DT) without inducing melting, as viewed under SEM.