Lasers in the Management and Prevention of Peri-Implantitis: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Future Directions

Current laser systems used in the management and prevention of peri-implantitis, recognizing that despite multiple therapeutic strategies, no gold-standard treatment exists. The aim also addresses the limitations of traditional mechanical debridement, which may damage implant surfaces, and highlights the potential advantages of laser-assisted decontamination. A narrative review approach examining existing literature on various laser modalities used in peri-implantitis therapy. The review focuses on commonly employed laser systems, their mechanisms, clinical applications, and the rationale behind their use as adjunctive or alternative treatment options to conventional mechanical debridement. Findings indicate that multiple laser systems demonstrate effective implant surface decontamination with minimal surface alteration compared to traditional mechanical instruments. Evidence supports their utility in both non-surgical and surgical peri-implantitis management, though variability exists in clinical outcomes due to differences in laser parameters, implant surface types, and disease severity. The extensive variation in laser types, operational parameters, and clinical methodologies across the literature complicates comparative analysis and hinders the development of standardized treatment protocols. This underscores the urgent need for robust, controlled clinical trials to facilitate evidence-based guidelines and enhance the predictability of laser-based interventions for peri-implantitis.