Micron-scale crack propagation in laser-irradiated enamel and dentine studied with nano-CT
![Micron-scale crack propagation in laser-irradiated enamel and dentine studied with nano-CT](https://usg.fei-software-center.com/backoffice/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/15-10-2018-22-50-39.png)
The aim of this study was to see the effect of Er:YAG laser irradiation in dentine and compare this with its effect in enamel. The mechanism of crack propagation in dentine was emphasised and its clinical implications were discussed. A possible mechanism is that laser radiation is transmitted down the dentinal tubules causing micro-cracks to form in the dentinal tubule walls that tend to be limited to this region. Crack might be a source of fracture as it represents a weak point and subsequently might lead to a failure in restorative dentistry.