Clinical, microbiological and cytomorphometric evaluation of low-level laser therapy as an adjunct to periodontal therapy in patients with chronic periodontitis

Adjunctive low-level laser therapy in periodontal treatment - A randomized clinical split-mouth trial

BACKGROUND

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been shown to exert biostimulatory effects, including increased cell proliferation and accelerated wound healing. Hence, the use of LLLT as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) for improved periodontal treatment outcomes has been examined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effect of adjunctive LLLT in the treatment of periodontitis with a 980-nm diode laser.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with a periodontal screening index of 3 or 4 who met the inclusion criteria were recruited and randomized into two groups for treatment allocation in a split-mouth design. The maxillary and mandibular left or right quadrants of the patients were assigned to either the test (SRP + LLLT) or the control (SRP) group. During the two final debridement sessions, LLLT was applied on one side of each study participant´s upper and lower jaws. The reevaluation of the clinical parameters and microbiological assays was performed 12 weeks after the initial therapy.

RESULTS

Both groups presented significant reductions in clinical parameters (p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant differences between the test and control groups were found for any of the parameters (all p values were greater than 0.05). The recolonization of P. gingivalis and T. denticola was not significantly reduced in the laser group.

CONCLUSION

The clinical parameters in both groups improved similarly after initial periodontal treatment. LLLT with the chosen settings did not show a beneficial effect during the initial nonsurgical treatment of periodontitis.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

LLLT is under discussion for periodontal therapy as a promising treatment modality. Compared with nonsurgical therapy alone, adjunctive periodontal treatment with a diode laser did not improve the clinical parameters of periodontitis patients in this study. Currently, there is no recommended treatment protocol for adjunctive LLLT in periodontitis, which needs to be further investigated with other laser settings.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN registry (#ISRCTN11275257), retrospectively registered, 16.10.2023.

Evaluating efficacy of laser-assisted new attachment procedure and adjunctive low-level laser therapy in treating periodontitis: A single-blind randomized controlled clinical study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on clinical, biochemical, and radiographic parameters when applied alongside scaling and root planing (SRP).

METHODS

The study was designed as a randomized controlled, single-blind, parallel trial involving 68 patients diagnosed with periodontitis. The participants were divided into three groups: Group 1: SRP (control), Group 2: LANAP, and Group 3: LLLT. Clinical measurements, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples, and standard periapical radiographs were obtained pre-treatment and at one- and three-month follow-ups. In GCF, interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were analyzed.

RESULTS

In moderate (4-6 mm) and deep pockets (≥ 7 mm), laser-treated groups showed a significant reduction in pocket depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) compared to the control group. However, there were no statistically significant differences in biochemical markers between the groups. Group 2 demonstrated significant bone filling compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

In deep pockets, laser-treated groups provide additional benefits to SRP. The application of LLLT positively affected recession (REC).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04694222 Date of registration: 01/01/2021.

Combined application of Er:YAG laser and low-level laser in non-surgical treatment of periodontitis

BACKGROUND

To compare the efficacy of combined treatment of Er:YAG laser (ERL) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with single laser applications, and scaling and root planing (SRP) for non-surgical periodontal treatment.

METHODS

In a randomized controlled trial, 25 non-smoking Stage II or Stage III periodontitis patients were recruited. The four intraoral quadrants were randomly assigned to four different treatments: (1) combined application with ERL plus SRP plus LLLT; (2) ERL plus SRP; (3) SRP plus LLLT; and (4) SRP. We assessed periodontal indexes, including probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding index (BI), and plaque index (PLI), along with three cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10) from gingival crevicular fluid and red complex pathogens from subgingival dental plaque at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.

RESULTS

For initial moderate pockets (4 mm ≤ PD ≤ 6 mm), quadrants treated with ERL+SRP+LLLT, ERL+SRP, and SRP+LLLT exhibited greater PD improvement compared to the control (SRP) quadrants at the 3-month follow-up (1.25 ± 1.06, 1.23 ± 1.12, 1.00 ± 1.21 vs. 0.98 ± 1.21 mm) and the 6-month follow-up (1.35 ± 1.06, 1.23 ± 1.17, 1.35 ± 0.98 vs. 0.98 ± 1.23 mm) (p = 0.002). Quadrants treated with ERL+SRP+LLLT and SRP+LLLT showed more CAL gain means than the control quadrants at the 3-month follow-up (0.96 ± 1.42, 0.61 ± 1.39 vs. 0.55 ± 1.57 mm) and the 6-month follow-up (0.84 ± 1.54, 0.89 ± 1.49 vs. 0.48 ± 1.68 mm) (p = 0.008). For initial deep pockets (PD ≥ 7 mm), the ERL+SRP+LLLT quadrants had more PD improvement and CAL gain compared to the control quadrants at follow-up. There were no significant differences in BI, PLI, inflammatory cytokines, and periodontal pathogens among the four groups.

CONCLUSION

The combined application of ERL and LLLT demonstrated potential efficacy in reducing PD, particularly for deep pockets.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

To compare the therapy effect of combined use of Er:YAG laser (ERL) and low level laser therapy (LLLT) with single laser applications, and traditional periodontal treatment (SRP). A total of 25 non smoking patients with periodontitis were involved, and their mouths were divided into four sections, each receiving a different treatment: ERL+SRP+LLLT, ERL+SRP, SRP+LLLT, and SRP. Clinical indexes and laboratory indicators were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. After six months, for initial moderate pockets, combined laser group and single laser group showed better improvements than traditional group in reducing the depth of periodontal pockets and increasing attachment levels. But for initial deep pockets, only combined laser group showed better improvement than traditional group. There were no significant differences in bleeding, plaque, inflammation, or harmful bacterial levels among the groups. These findings suggest that the integration of Er:YAG laser and low level laser therapy into standard periodontal treatment may enhance the treatment's benefits in reducing pocket depth, especially for severe conditions.

Evaluation of two low-level laser techniques as an adjunct to basic periodontal therapy: a randomized clinical trial

To assess and compare two techniques of low-level laser application-transgingival (TLLLT) and intrasulcular (ILLLT)-used in photobiomodulation as an adjunct to basic periodontal therapy (BPT) in patients with periodontitis. A randomized, split-mouth, double-blind clinical trial was conducted, selecting three diseased periodontal sites from different quadrants in each patient. These sites were assigned to one of three treatment groups: SRP (control), SRP + TLLLT (test 1), and SRP + ILLLT (test 2). Low-level laser therapy in the test groups was applied at 48 h, 7 days, and 14 days after full-mouth SRP. Clinical parameters such as probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were assessed at baseline (T0), 3 months (T1), and 6 months (T2). Standardized periapical radiographs were used to assess radiographic bone density (RBD) 6 months post-treatment. Statistical analyses included repeated measures ANOVA for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables, with significance set at p < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval. Significant reductions in PD (p < 0.001) and CAL (p < 0.001) were observed across all groups at 3 and 6 months, with no significant differences between groups. There were also no significant changes in BOP and RBD between groups at the follow-up intervals. Adjunctive photobiomodulation did not provide additional clinical or radiographic benefits over SRP alone, regardless of the laser application technique employed.

Salivary Macrophage Inflammatory Protein-1α Levels in Periodontitis Subjects Receiving Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy With and Without Photo-Biomodulation: A Prospective Interventional Controlled Trial

Introduction Periodontitis is a complex interplay of bacterial infection and host response. Non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) is effective but limited in thoroughly debriding challenging areas, often leading to recurrent bacterial colonization. Photobiomodulation (PBM), involving precise doses of laser photonic energy, has shown potential in modulating inflammation and promoting healing. This study investigates the impact of NSPT alone and NSPT combined with PBM on clinical parameters and salivary macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α) levels in periodontitis patients. Methods Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Sixty periodontitis patients aged 30-60 were selected and divided into two groups: Group 1 (NSPT alone) and Group 2 (NSPT with PBM). Clinical parameters including the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were assessed at baseline and 21 days post-treatment. Salivary MIP-1α levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results Both groups showed significant improvements in the PI, GI, PPD, and CAL from baseline to 21 days post-treatment. Group 2 exhibited greater reductions in the GI, PPD, and CAL compared to Group 1. Salivary MIP-1α levels post-intervention showed reduction in both groups but were not statistically significant between the groups. Conclusion NSPT combined with PBM demonstrates greater clinical improvements than NSPT alone, highlighting PBM as an effective adjunctive therapy. Both groups showed a reduction in MIP-1α levels post-intervention, suggesting the potential of MIP-1α as a biomarker for periodontal disease activity.

Adjunctive photobiomodulation to Basic Periodontal therapy using different low-power laser application techniques: a systematic review and meta-analysis

To review current literature and synthesize clinical outcomes related to different low-level laser techniques as a complement to basic periodontal therapy (BPT). Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus, and clinical trials published from January 2013 to August 2023 using photobiomodulation as a complement to basic periodontal therapy, with a clear description of the laser technique, were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklist. Estimates of interest were calculated using random effects meta-analyses. A total of 947 references were retrieved, and 22 studies were included for qualitative synthesis. Ten studies used intrasulcular laser techniques, with 89% using infrared wavelength, and 12 studies used transgingival techniques, with 61.5% using red wavelength. The frequency of photobiomodulation after BPT ranged from 1 to 9 sessions, with follow-up periods ranging from 5 days to 12 months. Risk of bias was considered low in 16 studies and moderate in six studies. Meta-analysis of 13 studies showed that BPT reduced probing depth at 4-, 12- and 24-weeks post-treatment, and improved clinical level attachment at 6-, 12- and 24-weeks post-treatment. Studies suggest that photobiomodulation may be a valuable complement in the treatment of periodontitis, especially using transgingival application technique.

Adjunctive antimicrobial photodynamic therapy for treating periodontal and peri-implant diseases

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis and peri-implant diseases are chronic inflammatory conditions occurring in the mouth. Left untreated, periodontitis progressively destroys the tooth-supporting apparatus. Peri-implant diseases occur in tissues around dental implants and are characterised by inflammation in the peri-implant mucosa and subsequent progressive loss of supporting bone. Treatment aims to clean the pockets around teeth or dental implants and prevent damage to surrounding soft tissue and bone, including improvement of oral hygiene, risk factor control (e.g. encouraging cessation of smoking) and surgical interventions. The key aspect of standard non-surgical treatment is the removal of the subgingival biofilm using subgingival instrumentation (SI) (also called scaling and root planing). Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) can be used an adjunctive treatment to SI. It uses light energy to kill micro-organisms that have been treated with a light-absorbing photosensitising agent immediately prior to aPDT.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of SI with adjunctive aPDT versus SI alone or with placebo aPDT for periodontitis and peri-implant diseases in adults.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Oral Health Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, two other databases and two trials registers up to 14 February 2024.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) (both parallel-group and split-mouth design) in participants with a clinical diagnosis of periodontitis, peri-implantitis or peri-implant disease. We compared the adjunctive use of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), in which aPDT was given after subgingival or submucosal instrumentation (SI), versus SI alone or a combination of SI and a placebo aPDT given during the active or supportive phase of therapy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures, and we used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence. We prioritised six outcomes and the measure of change from baseline to six months after treatment: probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival recession (REC), pocket closure and adverse effects related to aPDT. We were also interested in change in bone level (for participants with peri-implantitis), and participant satisfaction and quality of life.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 50 RCTs with 1407 participants. Most studies used a split-mouth study design; only 18 studies used a parallel-group design. Studies were small, ranging from 10 participants to 88. Adjunctive aPDT was given in a single session in 39 studies, in multiple sessions (between two and four sessions) in 11 studies, and one study included both single and multiple sessions. SI was given using hand or power-driven instrumentation (or both), and was carried out prior to adjunctive aPDT. Five studies used placebo aPDT in the control group and we combined these in meta-analyses with studies in which SI alone was used. All studies included high or unclear risks of bias, such as selection bias or performance bias of personnel (when SI was carried out by an operator aware of group allocation). We downgraded the certainty of all the evidence owing to these risks of bias, as well as for unexplained statistical inconsistency in the pooled effect estimates or for imprecision when evidence was derived from very few participants and confidence intervals (CI) indicated possible benefit to both intervention and control groups. Adjunctive aPDT versus SI alone during active treatment of periodontitis (44 studies) We are very uncertain whether adjunctive aPDT during active treatment of periodontitis leads to improvement in any clinical outcomes at six months when compared to SI alone: PPD (mean difference (MD) 0.52 mm, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.74; 15 studies, 452 participants), BOP (MD 5.72%, 95% CI 1.62 to 9.81; 5 studies, 171 studies), CAL (MD 0.44 mm, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.64; 13 studies, 414 participants) and REC (MD 0.00, 95% CI -0.16 to 0.16; 4 studies, 95 participants); very low-certainty evidence. Any apparent differences between adjunctive aPDT and SI alone were not judged to be clinically important. Twenty-four studies (639 participants) observed no adverse effects related to aPDT (moderate-certainty evidence). No studies reported pocket closure at six months, participant satisfaction or quality of life. Adjunctive aPDT versus SI alone during supportive treatment of periodontitis (six studies) We were very uncertain whether adjunctive aPDT during supportive treatment of periodontitis leads to improvement in any clinical outcomes at six months when compared to SI alone: PPD (MD -0.04 mm, 95% CI -0.19 to 0.10; 3 studies, 125 participants), BOP (MD 4.98%, 95% CI -2.51 to 12.46; 3 studies, 127 participants), CAL (MD 0.07 mm, 95% CI -0.26 to 0.40; 2 studies, 85 participants) and REC (MD -0.20 mm, 95% CI -0.48 to 0.08; 1 study, 24 participants); very low-certainty evidence. These findings were all imprecise and included no clinically important benefits for aPDT. Three studies (134 participants) reported adverse effects: a single participant developed an abscess, though it is not evident whether this was related to aPDT, and two studies observed no adverse effects related to aPDT (moderate-certainty evidence). No studies reported pocket closure at six months, participant satisfaction or quality of life.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Because the certainty of the evidence is very low, we cannot be sure if adjunctive aPDT leads to improved clinical outcomes during the active or supportive treatment of periodontitis; moreover, results suggest that any improvements may be too small to be clinically important. The certainty of this evidence can only be increased by the inclusion of large, well-conducted RCTs that are appropriately analysed to account for change in outcome over time or within-participant split-mouth study designs (or both). We found no studies including people with peri-implantitis, and only one study including people with peri-implant mucositis, but this very small study reported no data at six months, warranting more evidence for adjunctive aPDT in this population group.

Assessment of clinical efficacy of 445 nm Diode laser as an adjunct to Kirkland flap surgery in the management of periodontitis - a split mouth randomized clinical trial

Aim of this study is to assess the clinical efficacy of 445 nm Diode laser as an adjunct to Kirkland flap surgery in management of periodontitis. Type of study is a Split mouth clinical trial in which a total of 13 patients were recruited based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. In each participant, random allocation of selected sites into test and control in contralateral quadrants was done. Clinical parameters such as probing depth and clinical attachment loss was measured in control and test sites using occlusal stents. Flap surgery was carried out 6 weeks after phase I therapy and the selected contralateral sites with a probing depth of > 5mm were subjected to surgical therapy. In a test quadrant, 445 nm diode laser with a power of 0.8 W, CW mode, 320 µm fiber, in non-contact mode was used as an adjunct to flap surgery. Primary outcome variable assessed was change in PPD between baseline, pre-operative, 1-, 3- and 6-months post-surgery. Secondary outcomes variables assessed were Clinical attachment loss at baseline, pre-operative, 1, 3 and 6 months, visual analog scale at days 3 and 7 and patient satisfaction index at day 7 post surgery. Surgery for the second site (Test/control) in the contralateral quadrants was performed 1 week after the first surgery. A higher reduction in probing depth and gain in CAL was observed in test site at 1, 3 and 6 months follow up amongst all the included participants. VAS score was lower at the test site as compared to the control sites. PSI scores were similar in both the sites. The adjunctive use of 445nm diode laser to surgical periodontal therapy contributed to improved short term clinical outcomes as assessed at the end of 6 months post- surgery. VAS score indicative of post -surgical discomfort were also lower for the laser treated sites. Hence adjunctive use of laser (445 nm wavelength) can be recommended for achieving more predictable clinical outcomes.

Photoinactivation and Photoablation of Porphyromonas gingivalis

Several types of phototherapy target human pathogens and Porphyromonas gingivitis (Pg) in particular. The various approaches can be organized into five different treatment modes sorted by different power densities, interaction times, effective wavelengths and mechanisms of action. Mode 1: antimicrobial ultraviolet (aUV); mode 2: antimicrobial blue light (aBL); mode 3: antimicrobial selective photothermolysis (aSP); mode 4: antimicrobial vaporization; mode 5: antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). This report reviews the literature to identify for each mode (a) the putative molecular mechanism of action; (b) the effective wavelength range and penetration depth; (c) selectivity; (d) in vitro outcomes; and (e) clinical trial/study outcomes as these elements apply to Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg). The characteristics of each mode influence how each is translated into the clinic.

Different application procedures of Nd:YAG laser as an adjunct to scaling and root planning in smokers with stage III grade C periodontitis: a single-blind, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether different Nd:YAG laser applications as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) improve the healing response to periodontal therapy in smokers with periodontitis.

METHODS

This clinical trial included eighty systemically healthy smokers with periodontitis. Patients were randomly allocated to a treatment group: SRP alone (group 1), SRP+low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with Nd:YAG laser (group 2), SRP+pocket debridement with ND:YAG laser (group 3), and SRP+combined pocket debridement and LLLT with Nd:YAG laser (group 4). Gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (%), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded, and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples for metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) levels were collected at baseline, 1 month and 3 months after treatment.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the treatment groups for the GI, PI, and BOP (%) parameters and MMP-8 levels at any time points (p > 0.05). For moderately deep pockets, PD and CAL reductions were significantly greater in all test groups compared to group 1 (p ˂ 0.05). For deep pockets, these reductions were significantly greater in group 2 and group 4 compared to group 1 (p ˂ 0.05). PD and CAL reductions were generally similar between test groups (p > 0.05) except PD reduction between baseline and 3 months in deep pockets (p ˂ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this clinical trial suggest that Nd:YAG laser applications may be beneficial on the healing response of smokers to non-surgical therapy compared to SRP alone.

Cytomorphometric and Clinical Changes in Gingival Tissue after Subgingival Tooth Preparation-A Pilot Study

Tooth preparation for a metal-ceramic crown with a subgingival finish line can lead to inflammatory changes in the gingival tissue, often accompanied by cell damage. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical signs of inflammation and the cytomorphological status of the gingival tissue before and after tooth preparation. The research included a homogeneous group of 19 patients with an indication for upper canine preparation. Before and after treatment, the gingival and the gingival bleeding indexes were determined, gingival swabs were taken, and direct smears prepared on slides for cytomorphometric analysis. The values of the measured gingival indexes were statistically significantly higher (p < 0.001) after tooth preparation. They decreased over time, which indicated the reversibility of the resulting changes. Cytological examination showed no statistically significant difference between the values of nuclear area, perimeter, Feret diameter, Feret angle, integrated optical density, MinFeret, and roundness, before and after the treatment. Significantly higher values of circularity, integrated optical density, MinFeret (p < 0.05), as well as roundness (p < 0.001) were found after 72 h, compared to those taken 15 min after tooth crown preparation. This study is a pioneering attempt to show gingival changes during fixed prosthodontic treatment and may shed new light on pathogenetic events in prosthodontic patients.

Is a single session of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy as an adjuvant to non-surgical scaling and root planing effective in reducing periodontal inflammation and subgingival presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in patients with periodontitis?

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to assess the influence of a single session of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) as an adjunct to non-surgical scaling and root planing (SRP) in reducing periodontal inflammation and subgingival presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans) in patients with periodontitis.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with periodontitis were included. Information regarding age and gender was recorded using a questionnaire. All patients underwent full mouth non-surgical SRP and the following parameters were assessed at baseline: (a) marginal bone loss (MBL); (b) probing depth (PD) (c) clinical attachment loss (CAL); and (d) presence of supra-and subgingival bleeding and plaque (GI and PI). Identification of A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis was performed using polymerase chain reaction. For aPDT (test-group), methylene-blue (MB) (0.005%) was used as photosensitizer and it was applied over and inside the buccal pockets of teeth. Using a Diode laser at 660 nm and 150 mW, irradiation was performed All clinical parameters except for MBL and microbiological evaluations were re-assessed at 3-months of follow-up. Level of significance was set at P<0.05.

RESULTS

At 3-months of follow-up A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis were identified in significantly lower number of patients in groups 1 and 2 compared with their respective baseline values. Number of patients in whom A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis were identified at 3-months of follow-up were similar in both groups. At baseline, there was no statistically significant difference in PI, GI, PD, CAL and MBL among patients in groups 1 and 2. In groups 1 and 2, scores of PI (P<0.001), GI (P<0.001) and PD (P<0.001) were significantly higher at baseline compared with their respective 3-months' follow-up scores.

CONCLUSION

One application of aPDT with non-surgical SRP is ineffective in managing periodontal inflammation and presence of P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans in periodontitis patients.

Clinical and microbiological effects of photodynamic therapy applied in non-surgical treatment of periodontitis

Background/Aim. Treatment of periodontitis undergoes several treatment phases. Non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) represents the basic treatment stage, and it is applied to all the patients undergoing periodontal treatment. Adjunctive antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is one of several contemporary and relatively new possibilities with a role to inactivate microorganisms responsible for the occurrence and progression of the disease. The aim of this study was to comparatively analyze the clinical and microbiological effects of the NSPT alone, as well as combined with aPDT. Methods. A split-mouth method design was used in a prospective randomized controlled trial. The following clinical parameters were registered and monitored: plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing, probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). The presence of microorganisms Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Treponema denticola was detected by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Samples were tested before the therapy, as well as three months after the therapy. Therapeutic modalities of NSPT and NSPT with adjunct aPDT were examined. Results. All of the analyzed clinical parameters proved statistically significant improvement after the application of both treatment modalities (p < 0.001). Microbiological analyses showed that the total number of microorganisms was statistically significantly lower after the application of both methods (p < 0.001). Following the treatment, there was a statistically significantly reduced number of microorganisms Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Treponema denticola (p < 0.001). NSPT combined with aPDT led to a statistically significant improvement of both clinical parameters and microbiological status compared to NSPT applied on its own. Conclusion. The study showed improvement of all clinical indicators after the application of both treatment modalities. The total number of microorganisms was reduced as well as the number of specific microorganisms. Combining aPDT with NSPT led to a statistically significantly higher reduction in the number of microorganisms compared to NSPT alone.

LASER in periodontal treatment: is it an effective treatment or science fiction?

There are several studies that evaluate the use of lasers in periodontal treatment in non-surgical or surgical therapy. However, while several studies showed clinically beneficial effects of some lasers in periodontal treatment, there are few clinical reports of additional advantages of lasers as adjunctive treatments in periodontology. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate and critically analyze the level of scientific evidence of effects of low-level lasers and high-power lasers in periodontology. A narrative review of the studies was carried out in each topic and type of laser or periodontal treatment. In nonsurgical periodontal therapy the results showed that there is an additional clinical benefit when using a diode laser (DL) associated with scaling and root planing (SRP) in patients with moderate to severe periodontitis. The Er:YAG laser seems to be the most suitable for nonsurgical periodontal therapy and promotes the same clinical effects as conventional therapy. In periodontal surgery vaporization of the gingival or mucosal tissue can be carried out with DL, CO2, Nd:YAG, Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers. Photobiomodulation (PBM), mediated by low-level lasers associated with non-surgical periodontal therapy, promotes additional benefits in the short term and accelerates the bone and gingival tissue repair process and also reduces postoperative symptoms of periodontal surgery. The effect of antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy is relevant in the initial reevaluation periods. Studies have shown controversial results of the use of lasers in periodontics, and this fact may be due to the lack of standard parameters of irradiation in each clinical application.

Clinical effectiveness of adjunctive diode laser on scaling and root planing in the treatment of periodontitis: is there an optimal combination of usage mode and application regimen? A systematic review and meta-analysis

This review aims to evaluate the adjunctive clinical effectiveness of diode laser (DL) to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of periodontitis, and identify the optimal combination of usage mode and application regimen of DL. Eight electronic databases were searched up to January 2021. Probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index (PI), and gingival index (GI) were assessed at short-term (4-6 weeks), 3-month, and 6-month follow-ups. Based on DL usage mode, studies were divided into three groups: inside, outside pocket, and combined modes. As for application regimen, studies in each group were further subdivided into single- and multiple-session subgroups. Thirty randomized controlled trials with 825 participants were included. For inside mode, single-session DL showed significant improvements for PPD (short-term, and 3-month, p < 0.05), CAL (short-term, and 3-month, p < 0.05), PI (3- and 6-month, p < 0.05), and GI (short-term, 3-month, and 6-month, p < 0.05). For outside mode, multiple-session DL showed notable improvements for most clinical outcomes (p < 0.05). The effect of combined mode was still uncertain. Adjunctive DL had additional clinical benefits in the treatment of periodontitis. One session laser treatment is suggested when DL is applied inside pocket in future clinical practice. Meanwhile, more than one session laser treatment presents better outcomes when DL is used outside pocket. PROSPERO: CRD42020156162.

Adjunctive laser or antimicrobial photodynamic therapy to non-surgical mechanical instrumentation in patients with untreated periodontitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To compare the adjunctive effects of lasers or antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) to non-surgical mechanical instrumentation alone in untreated periodontitis patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two focused questions were addressed using the Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome criteria as follows: in patients with untreated periodontitis, (a) does laser application provide adjunctive effects on probing pocket depth (PPD) changes compared with non-surgical instrumentation alone? and (b) does application of aPDT provide adjunctive effects on PPD changes compared with non-surgical instrumentation alone? Both randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) were included. Results of the meta-analysis are expressed as weighted mean differences (WMD) and reported according to the PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

Out of 1,202 records, 10 articles for adjunctive laser and 8 for adjunctive aPDT were included. With respect to PPD changes, 1 meta-analysis including 2 articles (total n = 42; split-mouth design) failed to identify a statistically significant difference (WMD = 0.35 mm; 95%CI: -0.04/0.73; p = .08) in favour of adjunctive aPDT (wavelength range 650-700 nm). In terms of adjunctive laser application, a high variability of clinical outcomes at 6 months was noted. Two articles included patient-reported outcomes and 10 reported on the presence/absence of harms/adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Available evidence on adjunctive therapy with lasers and aPDT is limited by (a) the low number of controlled studies and (b) the heterogeneity of study designs. Patient-reported benefits remain to be demonstrated.

Oral Health-Related Risk Factors Among Students in Southeast Serbia

Background

An association between insufficient or irregular oral hygiene with the occurrence of dental caries, gingival/periodontal diseases, and consequently general diseases has been established.

The null hypothesis that there is no difference in the oral health status among students in a preclinical medical program and those who went through a clinical medical program was tested. The main objective of the study was to analyze oral health risk factors (oral hygiene practices, attitudes, and behavior) as well as their impact on oral health by using convenience sampling.

Material/Methods

We investigated risk factors for oral health conditions by examining oral hygiene practices, attitudes, and behaviors among the students in the medical program of the University of Niš, collecting data using questionnaires. The study included 396 students of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and vocational studies. Participants filled out the anonymous questionnaire.

Results

In both groups, parents were mostly employed, with the representation of employed fathers significantly higher in student group 1 (P<0.05), which is also the only statistically significant difference between the groups. In terms of oral hygiene practices, students were most often trained by parents (68.69%). A very high percentage of students brushed their teeth every day (97.22%), and 54.55% did this twice a day. Of the total number of students, 78.28% thought that it was necessary to use interdental brushes/floss/toothpick. The duration of teeth cleaning was 3 minutes in 39.39%, whereas 55.30% thought that it should be longer than 3 minutes. The most common brushing movements were combined movements and were used by 60.35% of all students. Of all students, 253 (63.89%) never smoked, 182 (49.96%) regularly went to the dentist, and 141 (35.61%) visited the dentist 6 months ago. The majority of students, 265 (66.92%), obtained the greatest amount of information about oral and tooth care from their dentist, which was the case in both age groups.

Conclusions

This study highlights oral health risk factors among students at the University of Niš. It is essential to determine their oral health knowledge, as it is of great significance both to patients and to students. Also, these students will be the major providers of health services and will be responsible for public oral health promotion. It could help in reformation of the oral health education program. The results of this research indicate that it is necessary to educate preclinical students to solve oral health issues.

Low-power lasers on bacteria: stimulation, inhibition, or effectless?

Clinical protocols based on low-power lasers have been widely used for inflammation process resolution improvement, pain relief, wound healing, and nerve regeneration. However, there are concerns if exposure to such lasers could have negative effects on infected organs and tissues. There are experimental data suggesting exposure to radiations emitted by low-power lasers either induces stimulation, inhibition, or it is effectless on bacterial cultures. Thus, this review aimed to carry out a review of studies and to propose a hypothesis to explain why exposure to low-power lasers could stimulate, inhibit, or have no effect on bacteria. A literature search was carried out for assessment of published reports on effect of low-power lasers on bacteria. The experimental data suggest that keys for determining laser-induced effects on bacteria are specific physical laser and biological parameters. Final consequence on bacterial cells could depend on exposure to low-power laser which could either cause more stimulation of endogenous photoacceptors, more excitation of endogenous photosensitizers, or a balance between such effects.

Bio-Inspired Systems in Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy to Reduce Contaminated Aerosol during COVID-19: A Comprehensive and Bibliometric Review

BACKGROUND

On 30 January 2020, a public health emergency of international concern was declared as a result of the new COVID-19 disease, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This virus is transmitted by air and, therefore, clinical practices with the production of contaminant aerosols are highly at risk. The purpose of this review was to assess the effectiveness of bio-inspired systems, as adjuvants to nonsurgical periodontal therapy, in order to formulate bio-inspired protocols aimed at restoring optimal condition, reducing bacteremia and aerosols generation.

METHODS

A comprehensive and bibliometric review of articles published in English. Research of clinical trials (RCTs) were included with participants with chronic or aggressive periodontal disease, that have compared benefits for nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).

RESULTS

Seventy-four articles have been included. For probing depth (PPD) there was a statically significant improvement in laser, probiotic, chlorhexidine groups, such as gain in clinical attachment level (CAL). Bleeding on probing (BOP) reduction was statistically significant only for probiotic and chlorhexidine groups. There were changes in microbiological and immunological parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of bio-inspired systems in nonsurgical periodontal treatment may be useful in reducing risk of bacteremia and aerosol generation, improving clinical, microbiological and immunological parameters, of fundamental importance in a context of global pandemic, where the reduction of bacterial load in aerosols becomes a pivotal point of clinical practice, but other clinical trials are necessary to achieve statistical validity.

Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation as an Adjunct to Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy in the Management of Periodontitis- A Systematic Review of in vivo Human Studies

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and regenerative properties. This systematic review aimed to critically appraise the published data of in vivo human randomized clinical trials (RCTs), and present a comprehensive overview of the efficacy of PBMT, as an adjunct to the nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) in the management of periodontitis. The systematic review protocol is registered in the Prospective Register Of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/; ref CRD 42020169108). With the help of the appropriate key words, structured electronic and manual search strategies were applied to gather the relevant published data on in vivo human RCTs based on this topic. Seventeen papers that met the eligibility criteria were included in this review and subjected to a qualitative assessment. Current evidence lacks adequate information regarding the photobiomodulation (PBM) dosimetry, which is fundamental in establishing a standardized and replicable protocol for future researches. Furthermore, substantial discrepancies in the study methodology and a high risk of bias, arising from the majority of the included papers, abet to the inferior quality of these studies. Ultimately, there is an urgent necessity to conduct further well-designed RCTs in order to determine the effectiveness of PBMT, if any, by taking into consideration the abovementioned confounding factors.

Photobiomodulation in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry: Part 1

(Part 2 of this article can be located at www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/photob.2019.4731.) Objective: Finding evidence-based treatment strategies for low-level light therapy (LLLT) and the correct incorporation of these treatment methods in the clinical practice of periodontics. Background: Photobiomodulation has been shown to have biostimulatory, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects that can be beneficial in periodontal and dental implant treatment procedures. Methods: In this review we have addressed some clinical questions regarding the potential clinical application of low-level light irradiation and its photobiomodulatory effects in periodontology and implantology. The literature was searched for in vivo (animal or clinical) articles written in English in four electronic databases of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library until April 2019. Only studies with low irradiation doses without any thermal effects used only for their photobiomodulatory purposes were included. Results: We were able to find relevant studies for all of our questions, and positive effects for the application of light therapy were reported in most of the studies. However, there is still great deal of heterogeneity in terms of study designs and most importantly in light irradiation devices and the parameters used. Owing to this issue it was not possible to reach specific evidence-based irradiation protocols for the questions addressed in this review. Conclusions: Based on our search results, an obvious positive effect of LLLT on stimulation of healing of periodontal soft and hard tissues and reduction of inflammation can be seen. Future well-designed randomized control studies with the same irradiation settings and systematic reviews evaluating the studies found on the questions mentioned are necessary to reach evidence-based recommendations.

The effectiveness of home-use photobiomodulation toothbrush for treating dentin hypersensitivity: A pilot study

Background and Aims

Dentin hypersensitivity is a frequent oral condition among patients suffering from gingival recession. Recent studies have suggested that photobiomodulation has the potential to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. The present study aims to assess the effectiveness of a new design of photobiomodulation toothbrush with specific irradiation parameters as a homecare device in treating dentin hypersensitivity and to compare its therapeutic effect with that of fluoride varnish.

Materials and Methods

Thirty patients with gingival recession and dentin hypersensitivity were selected and randomly assigned to three groups of equal size: fluoride varnish, photobiomodulation, and the combination. Dentin pain and hypersensitivity were measured using visual analog scale (VAS) by two distinct tests: the contact test with a periodontal probe and the air blast test on the areas of gingival recession and denuded root; once at baseline and again one month after the initial application of treatments. Laser irradiation was carried out at the wavelength of 660 nm in CW with an output power of 40 mW for 30 seconds per spot (1.2 J per spot, 6 J/cm² energy density, and 200 mW/cm² power density), perpendicularly to denuded root surfaces in non-contact mode.

Results

A significant reduction in dentin pain and hypersensitivity was observed in all three groups. However, the reduction was significantly greater in the combination group.

Conclusion

At-home treatment of dentin hypersensitivity with photobiomodulation toothbrush is a convenient, safe, and effective method for the management of dentin hypersensitivity.