Efficacy of Nd: Yag Laser Biostimulation in the Treatment of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injury after Implant Surgery

Abstract

Purpose: Dental implantology has become one of the most used treatment modalities in dentistry. The inferior alveolar nerve can be damaged during implant surgery. There are several treatment methods can be used for alveolar nerve injury and one of them is Low-Level Laser Treatment (LLLT). In present study, the effectiveness of Nd: YAG LLLT was evaluated following implant surgery. Methods:Four patients who have long-term sensory loss following implant placement in mandible were planned to treat with LLLT. Patients had numbness in their lip, chin and gingival areas and they had undergone implant surgery at least 8 months ago. The patients underwent LLLT with a Nd: YAG laser. Neurosensory tests (2-point discrimination test, visual analog scale) were applied to the patients before and after the laser treatment. Results:There was no statistical differences in 2 point discrimination test although there were some increased values. The VAS analysis indicated improvement in the quality of life. Conclusion:LLLT seemed to have positive effects on the reduction of long-term sensory nerve deficit following dental implant applications. Further studies are needed including LLLT to evaluate the postoperative neurosensorial complications of dental implant applications.