Lasers have become popular for their use and ease of application in various fields. Since the development of ruby lasers, they have been widely used in the field of medicine. Lasers were introduced in the field of clinical dentistry with the hope of overcoming some drawbacks posed by the conventional methods. Lasers are utilized in both soft and hard tissue application. Lasers have various periodontal applications including calculus removal, soft tissue excision, incision and ablation; decontamination of root and implant surfaces; bio-stimulation; bacteria reduction; and osseous surgery. This paper reviews some of the major uses of lasers in periodontal and implant therapy. The literature relating to the use of lasers for removal of the pocket epithelium, root conditioning, bacterial reduction and decontamination of infected implant surfaces is discussed. Advantages and disadvantages of using lasers for periodontal treatment are provided.
