Tissue-Level Laser-Lok Implants Placed with a Flapless Technique: A 4-Year Clinical Study.

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Periodontology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Analysis of Laser-Lok microtextured neck implants using a transmucosal surgical approach.
• Evaluation of marginal bone level (MBL) and periodontal parameters in a prospective 4-year clinical study.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term efficacy and safety of Laser-Lok implants placed with a transmucosal, flapless surgical technique.
• To evaluate marginal bone loss and periodontal health around these implants over a 48-month period.

Main Methods:

• 41 Laser-Lok tapered tissue level implants with a 2.0 mm laser-microtextured neck were placed in 36 patients using a flapless approach.
• Periapical radiographs were used to measure marginal bone level (MBL) at multiple time points up to 48 months.
• Periodontal parameters including gingival thickness, plaque score (PS), and bleeding on probing (BoP) were assessed.

Main Results:

• A 100% implant survival rate was achieved after 48 months, with no reported complications, peri-implantitis, or mucositis.
• Mean MBL showed progressive loss, reaching -1.10 ± 0.89 mm at 48 months; earlier placement timing and narrower implant diameters were associated with greater MBL variation.
• Implant diameter was identified as the primary factor associated with MBL modifications (p = 0.027).

Conclusions:

• The Laser-Lok implant system, when used with a transmucosal, flapless approach, demonstrates a favorable 4-year clinical outcome.
• The technique is associated with limited bone loss and stable periodontal parameters, indicating no significant inflammation or soft tissue compromise.
• Laser-Lok implants offer a suitable, minimally invasive option for dental restoration.