Efficacy of Erbium Laser Therapy in Management of Peri-Implantitis: Findings of a Clinical Observation

BACKGROUND: Peri-implantitis, frequently resulting from bacterial biofilm formation on implant surfaces, is a leading cause of dental implant failure. This underscores the relevance of developing and implementing effective decontamination methods that remove biofilm while preserving implant integrity and surrounding tissue.

CLINICAL CASE DESCRIPTION: This report presents a clinical case involving a 54-year-old patient with peri-implantitis at site 4.2. The treatment approach was tailored to the implant surface type and involved an Er,Cr:YSGG erbium laser (Biolase, USA) with a wavelength of 2780 nm. Laser irradiation of the anodized titanium dioxide (TiO₂) implant surface enabled efficient removal of granulation tissue and bacterial biofilm without damaging adjacent tissues and promoted subsequent regeneration. A large area of bone resorption was grafted with a xenogenic bone substitute and covered with a collagen membrane.

Clinical and radiographic evaluation at 6-month follow-up demonstrated stable bone levels and absence of inflammation.

CONCLUSION: This clinical case demonstrates the high efficacy of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser as part of comprehensive peri-implantitis management, providing atraumatic and effective implant surface decontamination while promoting bone regeneration.