Removal of root canal filling materials using Er:YAG laser irradiation.

The purpose of this study was to examine the ability of Er:YAG laser to remove root canal filling materials. The root canals of 21 extracted human anterior teeth were enlarged, and then obturated with gutta-percha points and sealer by lateral condensation. Filling materials were removed from root canals using Er:YAG laser irradiation at three energy output levels (30, 40, and 50 mJ/ pulse), and the corresponding time required for material removal at each energy output level was recorded.