Which laser type is more likely to damage the surface of a titanium implant?

The diode laser operating at 980 nm is more likely to damage the surface of a titanium implant due to its specific absorption characteristics and the type of tissue interaction it involves. Titanium, being highly reflective, does not absorb wavelengths in the red to near-infrared spectrum (which includes the 980 nm wavelength) as effectively as it does with other wavelengths. However, the energy generated from the diode laser can still lead to localized heating, which may affect the titanium surface, potentially causing oxidation or structural changes.

In contrast, the other laser types interact differently with tissues and materials. The Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm has a deeper tissue penetration and operates in a range where titanium reflects more energy, reducing the likelihood of surface damage. The Er:YAG laser at 2940 nm provides a very precise ablation and has a strong affinity for water absorption, which would be less harmful to titanium. The CO2 laser at 10,600 nm is absorbed primarily by soft tissues and has limited interaction with metals like titanium.

Understanding these interactions helps to inform choices regarding which laser to use based on the materials involved and the desired outcomes in clinical applications.