Dental Hygiene ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 4-7-2025

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the effectiveness of laser utilization in stabilizing periodontal disease over a one-year period. This research focused on the results following scaling and root planing with adjunctive laser-assisted periodontal therapy and laser bacterial reduction at subsequent periodontal maintenance visits. While short-term advantages are documented in the literature, research on sustained effectiveness is limited. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 30 adult patients who received the above treatment was conducted. Periodontal charting was recorded at three visits over one year. Data was collected and analyzed utilizing Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to determine statistical significance of periodontal parameters between visits. Results: Statistical analysis demonstrated periodontal stability over a one-year period. Conclusion: With the high prevalence of periodontal disease, integrating laser therapy as standard protocol has the potential to enhance lasting periodontal disease management. Further research studies are recommended to reinforce laser therapy’s long-term benefits for periodontal stability.

Degree Name

Dental Hygiene

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Dental Medicine

First Committee Member (Chair)

Robin Gatlin, RDH, MS (Chairperson)

Second Committee Member

Justine Ponce, RDH, MS

Third Committee Member

Angela Cook, RDH, MS

Language

English

Keywords

Keywords: “periodontal disease, ” “periodontitis, ” “lasers, ” “laser-assisted periodontal therapy, ” and “scaling and root planing, ” “laser therapy, ” “gum therapy, ” among several others.

Document Type

Thesis

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