Laser-assisted natural gingival profile creation of an ovate pontic site

Patient's desire for natural-appearing tooth replacements has prompted the development of various techniques designed to achieve a natural appearance of the soft tissues. Specifically, use of the ovate pontic is among the most versatile and effective means for obtaining the desired results. Creating a gingival profile of an ovate pontic site allows the cervical third of the pontic to merge with the surrounding tissues thereby making it appear to have emerged from the alveolar ridge. Use of lasers offer several advantages over conventional procedures for preparation of ovate pontic site by providing sterile area, hemostasis, precise soft tissue contouring, less time consumption, and reduced postoperative pain. This report presents the use of diode laser in creating a gingival profile in a 43-year-old male patient for an ovate pontic design of a fixed partial denture prosthesis.