Tissue Ablation Using Lasers: A Case Series

Abstract

Background: Lasers have recently been discovered as effective treatment modalities in dentistry, offering benefits such as reduced bleeding, infection, treatment and healing durations, and significantly improving patient convenience. They have found a wide range of applications in dentistry, from periodontal therapy to post-extraction healing, allowing for surgical procedures without sutures and minimizing post-operative bleeding by sealing blood vessels. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of diode laser treatment for tissue ablation in the oral cavity, particularly focusing on cases of excessive gingival growth (gummy smile) and peri-implantitis. Methods: This case series involved two patients: a 19-year-old female undergoing orthodontic treatment with excessive gingival growth and a gummy smile, and a 50-year-old female with peri-implantitis. Both patients were treated using a 980 nm diode laser. Laser parameters included a pulsed operational mode with a frequency of 5 kHz, peak power of 3 W, average power of 1.5 W, and a fiber diameter of 200 µm, with a 50% duty cycle. Data collection involved pre-operative and post-operative clinical examinations, including intraoral photographs, to document gingival overgrowth and treatment outcomes. Post-operative assessments were conducted at regular intervals to evaluate healing, erythema, swelling, and signs of infection. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results: In the first case, laser treatment reduced gingival overgrowth from 6-7 mm to 0 mm, with no erythema or swelling and minimal pain (VAS score from 4/10 to 1/10). Esthetic improvement was rated as excellent. In the second case, laser treatment resolved gingival overgrowth, eliminated bleeding on probing, and reduced pain (VAS score from 5/10 to 1/10). Implant abutments were clean, with no inflammation. Conclusion: Diode laser therapy is effective for tissue ablation in the oral cavity, ensuring the restoration of esthetics and function. It offers precise tissue removal, reduced post-operative bleeding, and accelerated healing, making it a valuable tool in modern dental practice.