Modeling the laser irradiation induced carbonate loss in dental enamel for dental caries prevention

Objectives: The substitution of carbonate ions with phosphate ions in dental enamel results in an acid-soluble mineral. Laser irradiation-induced carbonate loss in enamel has been correlated with a reduction in the rate of acid dissolution. While classical theoretical models for heat transfer and thermal stress evolution exist, the ability to predict carbonate loss has been limited. Predicting carbonate loss is clinically significant as it offers a potential tool for assessing the anti-caries efficacy of laser treatments. Methods: To accurately predict the modification depth of carbonate loss in dental enamel under laser irradiation, a thermochemical coupled model was developed based on the Fourier heat transfer model and the Arrhenius equation. Results: The predicted carbonate loss along the enamel depth agreed well with existing experimental measurements. Conclusions: The model demonstrated the capability to assess the modification depth of laser-irradiated enamel by quantitatively correlating laser parameters with carbonate loss along the temperature gradient. Clinical significance: These results suggest that the proposed model could facilitate the optimization of laser parameters for caries prevention in clinical dentistry.