Use of laser therapy in the treatment of peri-implantitis

Abstract

Lasers are generallu being applied in soft tissue management during implant placement, and gradually in the treatment of peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis is a disease of the peri-implant tissue caused by bacteria, whose most frequente signs are soft tissue inflammation and bone tissue resorption. Treatment is a challenge as a combination of therapies is usually needed, such as curettage and use of antibiotics when milder and surgical treatment when more advanced. Photodynamic therapy is a photochemical reaction with a photosensitizing substance that acts at the site of infection, reducing the number of bacteria presente. The aim of this article is to avaluate the types of lasers available and their effectiveness in the treatment of peri-implantitis.