The use of laser technologies in surgical dentistry: advantages and limitations. (A systematic review)

Objective. To synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials (2020—2025) on dental laser applications in surgical dentistry and to summarize benefits and limitations compared with conventional approaches. Materials and methods. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted (search date: 15 Aug 2025). We included human RCTs (N≥50) evaluating lasers during surgical dental procedures (tooth extraction, soft-tissue surgery, implant surgery, periodontal interventions) or perioperative photobiomodulation (PBM/LLLT) after surgery. Studies focused on restorative/therapeutic dentistry (endodontics, caries removal, dentin hypersensitivity), non-controlled designs, sample size <50, and/or non-clinical outcomes were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0. Results. Of 612 records, 9 RCTs were included in the qualitative synthesis. Most trials investigated perioperative PBM /LLLT after mandibular third-molar extraction and laser-assisted hard-tissue procedures (Er:YAG). For soft-tissue surgery (frenectomy), diode lasers were associated with less pain and faster healing than scalpel surgery. In implant dentistry, PBM /LLLT showed variable results: one RCT found no differences versus sham, whereas another reported improved soft-tissue healing; evidence on marginal bone changes was limited by short follow-up. Laser-assisted periodontal therapy showed modest additional improvements over SRP. Conclusion. Laser technologies may reduce postoperative symptoms and support healing in surgical dentistry, but the evidence is heterogeneous and laser parameters vary substantially. Standardized, adequately powered multicenter RCTs with longer follow-up are needed.