Which laser is characterized by high peak power and affinity for water, effective in the root canal system?

The choice of the Er:YAG laser as characterized by high peak power and affinity for water is accurate due to several key properties of this laser type. Er:YAG lasers operate at a wavelength of approximately 2940 nm, which corresponds closely to the absorption peak of water. This high level of affinity means that the Er:YAG laser can effectively interact with water-containing tissues, making it particularly useful in procedures that involve soft and hard tissues, including the dental root canal system.

Additionally, the Er:YAG laser generates high peak power, which enables it to produce precise and controlled effects in the dental tissue. The energy delivered can effectively vaporize water content in tissues without causing excessive thermal damage to the surrounding structures. This precision is crucial in intricate scenarios like root canal treatments, where careful instrumentation is necessary to navigate the complexities of the canal anatomy safely.

In summary, the Er:YAG laser's unique combination of high peak power and its strong interaction with water make it a favorable choice for applications in oral and dental procedures, particularly in the context of endodontics.