Influence of low-level laser therapy on implant stability in implants placed in healed sites: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: The present study aims to assess the influence of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on stability in implants placed in healed sites.

Material and methods: The present study followed the SPIRIT statement and is reported according to CONSORT. Patients were randomly allocated to LLLT or control groups. LLLT consisted in the application of 808-nm GaAlA laser applied before the preparation of the implant bed and after suturing (80 seconds; 11J/cm²). Implant stability quotient (ISQ) and the distance between the implant platform to the alveolar bone crest (millimeters) were assessed at implant placement (T₀) and the abutment selection phase (4-6 months, T_a).

Results: A total of 64 implants were placed in 33 patients. The insertion torque ranged from 10 to 70 N.cm (mean 43.23; SD ±16.82). The T₀ ISQ ranged from 18 to 95.5 (mean 61.7; SD ±18.23) and the crestal bone radiographic distance was 2.03 mm (SD±1.27). At T_a, the ISQ ranged from 39 to 90 (mean 64.2; SD±9.84), and the mean crestal bone radiographic loss was 1.70mm (SD±1.65). However, no differences were observed when LLLT and control groups were compared with ISQ difference (T_a-T₀; p=0.598) or radiographical peri-implant alterations (p=0.531).

Conclusion: LLLT did not influence the implant stability in implants placed in healed sites compared to a control group.

Trial registration: ReBEC, RBR-35TNJ7 . Registered May 23, 2018.

Keywords: Dental implants; Gallium aluminum arsenide lasers; Osseointegration; Randomized clinical trial.