Treating Peri-implantitis in a Predictable Way: Review of Literature and An Er: YAG Laser Based Case Report

Treatment options for peri-implantitis varies and often unpredictable. The current article delineates treatment modalities available for peri-implantitis and discusses evidence of their long-term predictable outcome. In addition, evidence of adjunctive use of laser therapy in dentistry is discussed. Finally, a peri-implantitis case which was treated with erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Er: YAG) laser and a regenerative procedure is presented, including long term follow-up. In the case, treatment included intra-sulcular incisions with full thickness flap, mechanical debridement of the osseous defect and decontamination of implant` surfaces with Er: YAG. Bone regeneration was done using biphasic calcium phosphate bone substitute and a resorbable collagen membrane. The outcome of the case show radiographic bone formation, healthy clinical periodontal pockets and no bleeding. The case presents the advantage of adjunctive usage of Er: YAG as a disinfecting agent which provides optimal environment for regeneration in peri-implantitis cases.