A recent systematic review conducted by Hazem Tamim, DDS, MSc, Aslihan Usumez, DDS, MSc, PhD, and Rene Franzen, PhD, sheds light on the effectiveness of laser-assisted gingival troughing compared to conventional methods in fixed prosthodontics. 

Published on January 10, 2024, the study aimed to assess the outcomes of gingival tissue management surrounding prepared teeth through various displacement methods.

Study Methodology and Findings

The systematic review, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, included nine in vivo studies identified through January 2022.

The studies, sourced from PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase, examined parameters such as achieved gingival displacement, influence on periodontal health, and other clinical factors.

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Among the key findings, the review highlighted that lasers exhibited the highest mean of achieved horizontal gingival displacement at 0.53 mm, surpassing other displacement methods. 

Additionally, six of the included studies measured various periodontal health parameters, demonstrating that lasers yielded superior results in gingival displacement and bleeding control. Furthermore, lasers were associated with shorter procedure times, ease of use, and reduced patient discomfort compared to conventional methods.

Implications and Conclusions

The systematic review suggests that laser-assisted gingival troughing holds promise in enhancing outcomes in fixed prosthodontics. Dr. Tamim and colleagues concluded that lasers offer advantages such as improved gingival displacement and bleeding control, reduced procedure time, and enhanced patient comfort. 

Moreover, the use of lasers resulted in either comparable or less gingival recession, lower tooth hypersensitivity impact, and decreased pain during the procedure compared to conventional methods.

This comprehensive review contributes valuable insights into the efficacy of laser-assisted gingival troughing, emphasizing its potential as a preferred method in clinical practice for managing gingival tissue in fixed prosthodontics. Further research and long-term follow-ups are warranted to validate these findings and explore the full extent of laser technology in dental procedures.

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