Background: Traditional methods of regenerating bone in periodontal bone defects have been partially successful and have involved numerous protocols and materials. More recently, it has been proposed that Er,Cr:YSGG laser energy may also be beneficial in the treatment of periodontal pockets, particularly in the regeneration of bone lost due to periodontal disease.
Case description: The purpose of this paper is to present a case report of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser being used to conservatively treat a recalcitrant periodontal pocket in the presence of a periodontal bone defect and that resulted in successful resolution of the pocket and significant radiographic bone fill at the 1 year recall visit.
Clinical implications: This protocol using the Er,Cr:YSGG laser for the treatment of periodontal loss of attachment and periodontal bone loss may represent a less invasive alternative than traditional open-flap periodontal surgery or the intrasulcular use of other more penetrating laser wavelengths.
Keywords: Alveolar Bone; Bone; Laser Surgery; Lasers; Periodontal Pocket; Periodontitis..