Flapless Er,Cr:YSGG laser versus traditional flap in crown lengthening procedure

Background/purpose Laser technology and minimally invasive therapy has gained attention in many dentistry fields. Er,Cr:YSGG laser is the latest laser type that can be applied on both soft tissue and hard tissue. This study presents periodontal outcome of Er,Cr:YSGG laser flapless crown lengthening procedure compared with traditional technique. Materials and methods Twenty-five participants were divided into two groups: 13 patients were treated with the traditional method of crown lengthening and 12 patients were treated using a flapless Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Their periodontal status were measured and compared at baseline, immediately, one month, and three months after surgery. Results The results showed a significant increase in clinical crown length immediately after surgery in both groups. After a three-month follow-up, the gingival margin of the laser group remained at stable height with 0.17 ± 0.31 mm increase after surgery, while the gingival margin of traditional group showed both recession and rebounding by −0.13 ± 0.63 mm (p > 0.05) average. Conclusion The flapless Er,Cr:YSGG laser crown lengthening with its minimally invasive approach without flap reflection may be an alternative treatment for providing an adequate height of tooth for restoration.