Study of Sub-Ablative Er,CrYSGG Laser and Fluoride Varnish to Prevent Fissure Caries in Permanent First Molars of Children Aged 6 to 12 Years

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effect of sub-ablative Er,CrYSGG laser irradiation on preventing dental caries in the grooves of permanent molars. This study is a split-mouth randomized controlled trial involving children aged 6 to 12 years who have fully erupted first permanent molars without significant decay. The trial compares laser treatment to fluoride varnish application to investigate their impact on caries resistance over time. Participants will receive two types of treatments on their molars one side will be treated with the sub-ablative Er,CrYSGG laser, which involves precise laser irradiation of the tooth surface without air or water cooling for 2 minutes per fissure. The other side will receive fluoride varnish applied to all teeth, including laser-treated and control teeth, at the start and again at 6 months. Oral hygiene instructions will be provided to both parents and children. Throughout the 12-month study, participants will have their teeth assessed at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months using DIAGNOdent readings and ICDAS-II scoring to monitor changes in caries development. The study collects data on enamel resistance to decay and oral health status. Parents must consent and commit to study procedures, and safety monitoring is included. Participation involves regular dental visits and assessments over one year.

Effect of Er,Cr:YSGG Sub-Ablative Laser Irradiation on Fissure Caries Prevention in Permanent Molars