Laser welding vs brazing: Clinical and histological evaluations

The aim of this study was to focus on biocompatibility of materials for orthodontic appliances and on the advantages of the laser weldings. The materials’ corrosion could be diminished by the use of Nd:YAG laser weldings, avoiding braze. 80 patients were considered to compare the results of corrosion in oral tissues with clinical evaluations and histopatological investigations. On all the patients was made a gingival biopsy near laser welding and braze. The advantages of this technology are: biocompatibility; no galvanic currents, toxicity, allergic reactions, risk of cancer, dental or periodontal reactions; high bond strength and corrosion resistance, since laser welding does not use solders of different metals; low thermal stress; time saving, greater precision and workability in processing. Whenever possible laser welding should be used for joining instead of brazing, to improve biocompatibility of orthodontic appliances in oral tissues.