Laser treatment as an adjunct to debridement of periodontal pockets.

The aim of the study was to investigate 1) whether laser treatment would enhance periodontal healing after debridement, 2) if laser treatment would facilitate instrumentation, and 3) if laser treatment would provide sufficient analgesia. The used apparatus produced radiation equivalent to a Nd:YAG-laser and was equipped with a water spray. 27 individuals with periodontitis took part in the study. Single-rooted teeth in one quadrant were assigned test teeth by lot with contralateral teeth serving as controls. Test areas were first laser irradiated to produce analgesia. The root surfaces were treated with the laser set at higher power and scaled with curettes followed by lasing again. Control areas were treated by scaling alone. Reduction of PPD and bleeding index after healing were similar in test and control areas. Laser treatment reduced the need of conventional anaesthetics, resulted in diminished bleeding and enhanced visual control at debridement. Thin calculus deposits were very easy to remove with hand instruments after lasing. The hemostatic effect of the laser may be an asset when performing periodontal scaling in individuals with a compromised coagulation mechanism.