Low Laser Therapy and Hyaluronic Acid as an Adjunct to Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal disease is an oral disease characterized by microbially associated, host-mediated inflammation of the periodontium. In the treatment of periodontal disease, conventional periodontal therapy includes both surgical and non-surgical approaches. Non-surgical therapy (i.e. scaling and root planing - SRP) remains an essential part of periodontal therapy. Here, diseased root surface debridement utilizing different hand and ultrasonic instrumentation is performed to facilitate periodontal re-attachment and to reduce the bacterial mass in the periodontal pocket.

In the last decade, the use of lasers (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) has occupied part of the dialogue within periodontology due to several proposed advantages. In the arena of periodontology, laser use, as an adjunct to non-surgical therapy, was demonstrated to enhance periodontal healing; however, it is still the matter of debate. Among laser applications, low-level laser therapy is recommended for its pain-reducing, woundhealing and anti-inflammatory effects.

Hyaluronic acid is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan and a major component of the extracellular matrix. It is found in various body fluids, such as gingival crevicular fluid, saliva, serum and synovial fluid. Anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous and anti-bacterial activities of hyaluronic acid have been investigated in dentistry, specially in periodontology.