Efficacy of Er:YAG Laser in Decontamination of Dental Implants: An In-Vitro Study
Completed · Not applicable
Conditions studied: Peri-Implantitis
In brief
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons estimated that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth. Dental implants have revolutionized dentistry by providing tooth-like replacement for missing teeth and a solution that is predictable with long-term success.. After the implant is placed, natural bacteria from the mouth can develop around implants just like around natural teeth. Studies have shown that bacterial contamination can cause peri-implantitis- gum disease or inflammation around the implant, eventually leading to bone loss. Removing bacteria from dental implant surfaces can prevent peri-implantitis, and surface debridement constitutes the basis of treatment of peri-implant disease. Typically, mechanical hand instrumentation using curettes to remove biofilm and calculus is the main basis for periodontal therapy. However, total debridement is difficult, and the hand tools may damage the surface of the implant and making it more plaque retentive. Studies have shown that mechanical non-surgical therapy alone is not sufficient to treat peri-implantitis. There is evidence that a dental laser may be an effective method to remove bacteria from implant surfaces, with less damage to the surface. One type of dental laser, Er:YAG, appears optimal for implant decontamination as the Er:YAG laser energy is primarily absorbed by water, resulting in vaporization of bacteria and minimal surface alterations on the implant surface.The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of biofilm decontamination of Er:YAG laser compared to carbon fiber curette.
Key facts
- Study ID
- NCT03100435
- Run by
- Tufts University
- People needed
- 8
- Starts
- 2017-04-20
- Expected to finish
- 2018-10-18
- Last updated by the study team
- 2023-03-31
Who can join
Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.
You may qualify if…
- Presence of enough teeth to support the mouth guard.
- Subjects diagnosed with clinical health, gingivitis, or slight chronic periodontitis defined as periodontal inflammation with slight (1-2mm) attachment loss.
You may not qualify if…
- Subjects with insufficient dental support for the mouth guard
- Subjects diagnosed with moderate or severe chronic periodontitis.
- Subjects with known allergy to acrylic or titanium.
- Subjects who smoke cigarettes, cigars, snuff tobacco, or any other form of smoking.
- Subjects with a history of antibiotic treatment within the last six months.
- Subjects with contraindications to wearing a mouth guard, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or severe sleep apnea.
- Subjects with uncontrolled or debilitating medical conditions, including but not limited to subjects with uncontrolled diabetes, hematologic disorders, cancers, immunosuppression, severe cardiovascular disease, or uncontrolled thyroid disease
- Subjects that are currently pregnant according to self-report
Where it is running
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine — Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov
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