The efficacy of Er,Cr:YSGG laser supported periodontal therapy on the reduction of peridodontal disease related oral malodor: a randomized clinical study

BACKGROUND This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Er,Cr:YSGG laser assisted periodontal therapy on the reduction of oral malodor and periodontal disease. METHODS Sixty patients with chronic periodontitis were included in the study and allocated into two groups each containing 30 patients. The study was planned in a double blind fashion. Conventional periodontal therapy was performed in group 1 and conventional periodontal therapy was performed in association with Er,Cr:YSGG application in group 2. Periodontal parameters of probing depth, clinical attachment level, plaque index and bleeding on probing were measured with a periodontal probe. Quantitative analysis of volatile sulphure compunds (VSCs) were measured with a calibrated halimeter at baseline level and at post-treatment 1st, 3rd and 6th months. P values <0.05 were accepted as statistically significant. RESULTS There was a statistical significant reduction in VSC values in group 2 at post-treatment 3rd and 6th months (p < 0.05). Pocket depth values at post-treatment 1st month and bleeding on probing values at post-treatment 3rd and 6th months were significantly decreased in group 2 (p < 0.05). Intragroup statistical analysis revealed that there were statistically significant differences for all parameters (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Er,Cr:YSGG laser assisted conventional periodontal therapy is more effective in reducing oral malodor and improving periodontal healing compared to conventional periodontal therapy alone.