Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy versus Conventional Scaling and Root-Planing: A Comprehensive Comparative Review
Sr No:
Page No:
110-114
Language:
English
Authors:
Ruaa Kahtan Mahmood1,*, Amani Ali Sekeb1 , Hakima Salman Jabr1
Received:
2025-09-25
Accepted:
2025-10-18
Published Date:
2025-10-24
Abstract:
Background: Scaling and root-planing (SRP) remains the foundational non-surgical treatment
for periodontitis, but residual pockets, incomplete bacterial removal and patient discomfort
motivate adjunctive approaches. Laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT) — including
Er:YAG, diode, Nd:YAG, CO₂, LANAP and photodynamic therapy (PDT) — is proposed to
improve microbial decontamination, tissue management and healing.
Objective: To systematically review clinical, microbiological and patient-centred outcomes
comparing LAPT (monotherapy or adjunctive) with conventional SRP in adult periodontitis
patients, emphasizing studies from 2018–2025.
Methods: Searches of PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Central and open access journals (through
Oct 2025) identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials and
systematic reviews comparing any LAPT versus SRP. Primary outcomes: probing pocket depth
(PPD) reduction and clinical attachment level (CAL) gain. Secondary outcomes: bleeding on
probing (BOP), plaque/gingival indices, microbiological/inflammatory markers, patient-reported
outcomes and adverse events. Data were extracted by two reviewers and synthesized
qualitatively due to heterogeneity in laser types and protocols.
Results: Thirteen RCTs/controlled trials and multiple systematic reviews/meta-analyses were
identified. Adjunctive laser therapy (particularly Er:YAG or diode lasers used in well-specified
protocols) often produced modest additional short-term improvements in PPD, CAL and BOP
versus SRP alone; effect sizes were commonly <1 mm and declined over time in many studies.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) adjuncts and some LANAP/ Nd:YAG protocols show promising
reductions in pathogens and early clinical markers [7,17,22]. Evidence quality is variable;
heterogeneity of laser parameters, operator skill and follow-up durations limit generalizability.
Conclusions: LAPT can provide modest incremental clinical benefits as an adjunct to SRP in
selected protocols and patient subsets (e.g., residual deep pockets), especially in the short term.
There is insufficient robust evidence to support routine replacement of SRP by lasers.
Standardized laser protocols, larger multicentre RCTs and ≥12-month follow-up studies
(including cost-effectiveness) are needed.
Keywords:
Laser therapy; Scaling and root-planing; Periodontitis; Er:YAG; Diode; Photodynamic therapy.