Free gingival graft adjunct with low-level laser therapy: a randomized placebo-controlled parallel group study

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biophotonics

Background:

• Free gingival graft (FGG) procedures are common in periodontology.
• Graft shrinkage and postoperative pain are significant challenges.
• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is explored for its regenerative potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of LLLT in conjunction with FGG procedures.
• To assess LLLT's impact on FGG shrinkage and wound healing.
• To determine LLLT's effect on postoperative pain reduction.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 30 patients undergoing FGG.
• Patients received either FGG + LLLT (test group) or FGG + placebo LLLT (control group).
• An 810-nm diode laser was applied post-surgery, with measurements taken at baseline and 3, 6 months.

Main Results:

• Graft shrinkage was significantly lower in the LLLT group at 3 and 6 months (p<0.05).
• No significant difference in wound epithelialization was observed between groups.
• LLLT significantly reduced VAS pain scores and analgesic use (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

• 810-nm diode laser therapy enhances FGG outcomes by reducing graft shrinkage.
• LLLT effectively alleviates postoperative pain following FGG procedures.
• LLLT offers additional benefits for FGG, improving graft stability and patient comfort.