This randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of laser-assisted therapy on soft tissue healing at the pontic site prior to fixed partial denture rehabilitation. Clinical healing outcomes, postoperative pain levels, and gingival crevicular fluid transforming growth factor beta-2 (TGF-β2) levels were assessed to determine the biological and clinical effects of laser therapy compared with placebo.

Delayed or compromised soft tissue healing at the pontic site may prolong prosthetic treatment and negatively affect tissue stability and patient comfort. Photobiomodulation has been reported to enhance wound healing and modulate inflammatory and regenerative processes. This randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated the clinical and biological effects of laser-assisted therapy on pontic site healing prior to fixed partial denture rehabilitation. Clinical healing index scores, wound dimensions, postoperative pain levels, and gingival crevicular fluid TGF-β2 levels were assessed to investigate both clinical and biological aspects of healing.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 years or older
• Patients requiring single-tooth extraction followed by fixed partial denture rehabilitation
• Patients in good general health
• Patients willing to participate and able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of systemic diseases that may affect wound healing (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, immunological disorders)
• Active periodontal disease at the study site
• Use of medications affecting wound healing
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Pregnancy or lactation
• History of radiotherapy in the head and neck region
• Known contraindications to laser therapy