29/08/2026
Laser-Assisted Treatment for Peri-Implantitis – TwinLight Approach
The patient presented with pain associated with implants in quadrant one. Unfortunately, these implants had lost significant bone support and will need to be removed. In the meantime, implants in other quadrants had also experienced bone loss, but the condition was manageable with laser treatment.
One of the challenges in this case was the bulky design of the prosthesis. The prostheses were joined together and connected to natural teeth, making effective oral hygiene particularly difficult for the patient. Ideally, the crowns and bridges would be removed to allow better access to the implants and facilitate oral hygiene during recovery.
The cement-retained prosthesis, combined with the unknown implant system, presented another challenge in this case. SWEEPS® offered a potential solution for managing cases such as this.
Peri-implantitis was treated using a flapless approach. Er:YAG laser-induced photoacoustic shockwaves were used to disrupt and remove biofilm, pathogens and subgingival calculus. Nd:YAG laser therapy was also incorporated for photobiomodulation, with the aim of supporting favourable tissue healing.
The patient’s cooperation and commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene at home also played an important role in the successful management of this case.
The postoperative X-rays were taken after the patient’s second hygiene maintenance appointment, following the initiation of peri-implantitis treatment the previous year.
Peri-implantitis treatment remains challenging. Laser-assisted approaches provide clinicians with an additional tool for managing these complex cases and supporting patients in maintaining their implants.
Dental implants can provide patients with improved function and aesthetics. However, the long-term success of implant therapy requires shared responsibility between the patient and clinician. The decision to remove a tooth and replace it with an implant should therefore be carefully and deliberately considered.
Consultation is necessary.