Er:YAG Laser Assisted Root coverage (Semilunar coronally repositioned Flap and Envelope Technique)

Abstract

The main indications for root coverage procedures are esthetic, cosmetic demands and root sensitivity. Changing the topography of marginal soft tissue in order to facilitate plaque control is also common indication for root coverage procedures. Root coverage surgical procedures used in the treatment of recession defects may basically be classified as pedicle soft tissue graft procedures, free soft tissue graft procedures. Before root coverage is attempted the exposed portion of the root should be rendered free from bacterial plaque. After root planing, contaminants remain in the smear layer of root surface. Various chemicals (EDTA, Phosphoric acid, Tetracycline, etc) are used to remove contaminations from root surface. This is a case report of root coverage procedure using the Er:YAG laser without chemicals.