Predictable implant uncovery with diode laser

Fig.1: Picasso Lite+ Diode Laser (AMD LASERS). (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 2: Comparison of the depth of affected cells with an electrosurgery unit and a diode laser. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 3: Tissue reaction upon contact with an initiated diode laser tip, demonstrating the effect as one moves away from the tip. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Figs. 4a: Implant to be uncovered (4a) presents with two options depending on width of attached gingiva available. Wide band of attached gingiva will remain after removal of tissue over cover screw, and the diode is utilized in a spiral pattern starting at center until fully exposed (4b). With the narrow band of attached gingiva present, an elliptical cut is made with the diode and tissue is pushed buccally and lingually to preserve the attached gingiva (4c). (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 4b: Implant to be uncovered (4a) presents with two options depending on width of attached gingiva available. Wide band of attached gingiva will remain after removal of tissue over cover screw, and the diode is utilized in a spiral pattern starting at center until fully exposed (4b). With the narrow band of attached gingiva present, an elliptical cut is made with the diode and tissue is pushed buccally and lingually to preserve the attached gingiva (4c). (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 4c: Implant to be uncovered (4a) presents with two options depending on width of attached gingiva available. Wide band of attached gingiva will remain after removal of tissue over cover screw, and the diode is utilized in a spiral pattern starting at center until fully exposed (4b). With the narrow band of attached gingiva present, an elliptical cut is made with the diode and tissue is pushed buccally and lingually to preserve the attached gingiva (4c). (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 5: When minimal keratinized gingiva is present, the diode laser is utilized to make an incision distal-mesially, and the tissue is spread conserving all of the attached gingiva present. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 6: Buccal view of the anterior maxilla demonstrating preservation of the papilla due to the provisional bridge. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 7: Occlusal view of the anterior maxilla demonstrating preservation of the papilla due to the provisional bridge. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 8: Picasso Lite+ diode laser removing soft tissue to uncover the implants’ cover screws. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 9: Uncovery of the implants and healing screws exposed. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 10: Healing abutments placed into the implants. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)

Fig. 11: Removal of the healing abutments at two weeks post-uncovery demonstrates a lack of inflammation of the modified soft tissue. (Photo provided by Dr. Gregori M. Kurtzman)