Abstract
Implant dentistry has evolved beyond achieving osseointegration to optimizing every stage of treatment for improved biological outcomes, patient comfort, and long-term success. Laser technology has become an important adjunct throughout the implant workflow, offering minimally invasive solutions that enhance surgical precision, accelerate healing, and support the management of peri-implant tissues. This lecture provides a practical, evidence-based overview of laser applications before, during, and after implant placement. Topics include laser-assisted decontamination of extraction sockets, management of infected sites, photobiomodulation, soft tissue surgery, second-stage implant uncovering, and soft tissue conditioning during the restorative phase to optimize functional and esthetic outcomes. Particular emphasis will be placed on the prevention and management of peri-implant diseases. Beyond reviewing treatment protocols, the lecture will address a common clinical challenge: When should peri-implantitis be treated with an Er:YAG laser, and when should it not? Evidence-based criteria for case selection—including defect configuration, implant surface characteristics, extent of bone loss, and patient-related factors—will be discussed to help clinicians identify cases that are most likely to benefit from laser therapy and recognize situations where alternative surgical or regenerative approaches are more appropriate. Current scientific evidence will be combined with practical treatment algorithms and clinical cases to illustrate indications, limitations, laser parameters, and common pitfalls. By the end of this session, participants will have practical protocols and clinical decision-making tools that can be readily incorporated into daily implant practice, ultimately improving treatment predictability, peri-implant tissue health, and the long-term success of dental implants.
Learning Objectives
- Discuss how lasers can be integrated into every stage of implant therapy — from treatment planning to long-term maintenance
- Explain the different clinical uses of lasers before, during, and after implant placement to improve healing, patient comfort, and treatment outcomes
- Recognize when an Er:YAG laser is the right choice for treating peri-implantitis — and when other treatment approaches are more appropriate
- Demonstrate a practical approach to selecting laser protocols based on clinical findings, implant conditions, and patient factors
- Apply simple clinical protocols and treatment strategies that can be incorporated into everyday implant practice to improve the long-term health and success of dental implants
