Impact of Nd:YAG Laser Photobiostimulation on Healing of Gingiva

Impact of Nd: YAG Laser Photobiostimulation on Healing of Gingiva Following Tooth Extraction and Alveolar Ridge Preservation

The intervention in this study is to determine whether multiple applications of photobiostimulation with Nd-YAG laser improve wound healing following tooth extraction and alveolar ridge preservation. Investigators plan to assess the impact of laser treatment on wound healing by measuring salivary biomarkers, gingival wound size and surveying for the use of pain reduction and patient satisfaction. The intervention group will receive extraction and alveolar ridge preservation with Nd-YAG laser photobiostimulation on days 1, 3, and 7 following extraction and socket preservation, while the control group will receive the standard of care extraction and alveolar ridge preservation without the laser

Photobiostimulation, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or phototherapy, utilizes a low-level laser to increase cell proliferation, enhance cell stimulation, and reduce gingival inflammation. It has been reported that photobiostimulation enhances chemical and metabolic changes and alters cellular behavior in the tissue by light absorption. Photobiostimulation as an adjunct treatment modality can accelerate the healing process, improve patient comfort and satisfaction following dental surgical procedures, and benefit patients with compromised healing capacity.

Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) is a standard procedure to minimize alveolar bone and gingival soft tissue atrophy following tooth extraction and before dental implant placement. The healing of ARP is critical for the success of implant placement timely treatment. The ARP procedure is currently the standard practice for patients interested in dental implant treatment and involves bone grafting of the extracted socket. ARP techniques have been used for over 20 years to maintain a favorable soft and hard tissue morphology for dental implant-related restorations.

The purpose of this study is to understand the impact of Nd-YAG laser photobiostimulation on wound healing when combined with tooth extraction and alveolar ridge preservation procedures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants who are ≥ 18 years old,
• Patients who are scheduled for the treatment of tooth extraction and alveolar ridge preservation (ARP)
• No contraindications for tooth extraction and alveolar ridge preservation based on electronic health records.
• Participants who can express the level of pain
• Participants who self-report "not pregnant"

Exclusion Criteria:

• Untreated periodontal disease
• Acute infection of the teeth
• Use of antibiotics within the last three months.
• Pregnant or lactating women
• Use of bisphosphonates based on EHR
• Alveolar bone defects occurred or were detected during tooth extraction