Patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus are more susceptible to periodontal damage and are often unsuitable for conventional surgery. The LiteTouch™ laser is iused in periodontal therapy, including a new technique known as Er:YAG Laser-Assisted Comprehensive Periodontal Pocket Therapy (Er-LCPT). This case report evaluates the safety and efficacy of Er-LCPT in a 51-year-old woman with Type II diabetes and severe periodontitis, who had been referred for extraction of tooth 12.

Results: Before treatment, the patient’s tooth 12 had a 9mm periodontal pocket depth (PD) and a 12mm clinical attachment level (CAL), with bleeding on probing (BOP). The LiteTouch™ laser was used to remove the inflamed tissue, followed by debridement. No painkillers were needed post-procedure. After 6 months, the PD reduced to 2mm, with CAL improved to 7mm and no BOP. Bone regeneration was confirmed at 1 year, and after 1.5 years, the tooth remained stable, with a 7mm PD reduction and a 5mm CAL gain.

Conclusion: The LiteTouch™ Er-LCPT is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive alternative for treating severe periodontitis. Significant improvements in pocket depth, clinical attachment level, and bone regeneration were observed, making it a valuable option for managing periodontitis in diabetic patients.

To read more about lasers in Periodontics go to https://light-inst.com/applications/periodontics/