Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Soft Tissue Healing, Pain, and Bone Preservation After Dental Implant Placement: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
PURPOSE Healthy peri-implant soft tissues are essential for implant longevity. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has emerged as a promising additional approach for enhancing wound healing after implant surgery, but evidence remains inconsistent. This study evaluates the clinical, radiographic, and inflammatory effects of LLLT on peri-implant soft tissue healing, pain, inflammatory biomarkers, and marginal bone preservation following implant placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS This randomized, controlled, single-blinded trial included 272 adults requiring single-tooth implants. Participants were randomized to two equal groups, LLLT (n=136) or control (n=136). The intervention involved daily 810 nm diode laser irradiation for five days post-surgery. Outcomes assessed included pain (VAS), healing clinical indices, oral health-related quality of life (OHIP-14), marginal bone loss (MBL), and peri-implant crevicular fluid biomarkers. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software with mixed-effects models adjusted for baseline imbalances. RESULTS Among 272 participants, baseline demographics and comorbidities were comparable (all p>0.23 and p≥0.658, respectively). LLLT significantly reduced pain scores across all follow-ups (0.35-1.21 points lower, partial η²=0.783) and improved healing indices, gingival inflammation, and bleeding scores compared to controls. The LLLT group demonstrated persistently lower peri-implant inflammatory markers (TNF-α) and higher angiogenic response (VEGF). Radiographic evaluation revealed less MBL in the LLLT group with 0.07-0.22 mm less than control after day 7. Additionally, patients reported improved oral-health-related quality of life. CONCLUSION LLLT enhances peri-implant wound healing, reduces pain and inflammation, and preserves marginal bone, suggesting its value as a minimally invasive adjunct to implant therapy.