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CO2 Laser-Mediated Apically Positioned Flap in Areas Lacking Keratinized Gingiva
Toni Zeinoun1, Zeina Majzoub2, Carlos Khoury1
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon.
Laser Therapy
|August 9, 2017
Summary
This study shows that using a CO2 laser for apically positioned flaps (APFs) effectively increases keratinized gingiva (KG) in patients with minimal KG and high frenum attachment. The laser-assisted APF procedure offers a minimally invasive option with predictable results and reduced complications.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Oral Surgery
- Laser Dentistry
Background:
- Autogenous gingival grafts are standard for gingival augmentation but require a second surgical site.
- Apically positioned flaps (APFs) offer an alternative for soft tissue augmentation.
- Effectiveness of laser-mediated APF for keratinized gingiva (KG) augmentation is not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate soft tissue changes after CO2 laser-assisted APF.
- To assess KG augmentation in mandibular incisors with minimal KG and high labial frenum attachment.
Main Methods:
- 20 patients with minimal KG (< 2 mm) underwent CO2 laser-assisted APF.
- A split-thickness flap was apically repositioned and sutured.
- KG height was measured at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.
Main Results:
- All 19 patients who completed follow-up experienced uneventful healing.
- An increase in KG height of 2-3 mm was achieved.
- The procedure was rated as minimally painful by most patients.
Conclusions:
- CO2 laser-assisted APF is a minimally invasive technique for KG augmentation.
- The procedure leads to a predictable increase in KG height.
- Reduced bleeding risk is associated with this laser-assisted approach.
