The use of laser in dentistry: a narrative review

Abstract

Implant dentistry has emerged as a first line of treatment to replace missing teeth for both the edentulous and partially dentate patients. Implant dentistry is accompanied by the onset of peri-implantitis (PIM). PIM is characterized by the inflammatory destruction of the implant-supporting tissues, because of biofilm formation on the implant surface. A history of periodontitis, poor oral hygiene, and smoking are considered as risk factors for PIM. Occasionally PIM is associated with iatrogenic factors, that, only recently, have been acknowledged as direct cause of PIM, i.e.: non-parallel adjacent implants or the presence of a gap, between fixture and prosthetic components. The use both of traditional protocols of nonsurgical periodontal therapy and the laser seems to be an effective alternative treatment modality for PMI. By the application of laser-assisted non-surgical peri-implant therapy the periodontal pocket depth was reduced. The present article illustrates the nonsurgical management of one case, where failure to remove residual cement, from an implant-supported dental prosthesis, seemed to cause PMI.