Low-level laser therapy for management of large periapical lesions associated with open apex cases

Abstract

Context: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is an established method to accelerate wound healing through the phenomenon of biostimulation. Aims: This case study presents a novel approach for management of open apex cases associated with large peripapical lesions using 980-nm diode laser for biostimulation. Settings and Design: Case report. Materials and Methods: Two patients presenting with open apex associated with periapical lesion were selected. After access opening, canal disinfection was carried out with sodium hypochlorite and 980-nm diode laser. Calcium hydroxide was given as intracanal medicament for 1 week. When patient was asymptomatic, apical plug of 4–5 mm MTA was placed. In addition, seven sessions of LLLT were administered transcutaneously around the apices of involved teeth every alternate day for 15 days. Results: One year follow-up radiograph revealed remarkable healing of the lesion. Conclusion: The combination of increased cellular proliferation with laser biostimulation and meticulous canal disinfection with lasers has the potential of accelerating healing of the periapical lesions.

Keywords

• biostimulation
• diode laser
• low-level laser therapy
• open apex
• root canal disinfection