Laser systems for gingival retraction in fixed prosthodontics: a narrative review.

Aim The present narrative review aimed to shed light on the use of laser systems for gingival retraction procedures necessary for the exposure of iuxta- and sub-gingival finish lines before impression making in fixed prosthodontics. Methods An extensive search of the literature was made on the electronic databases of Pubmed (Medline), Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar, Dynamed, and Open Grey. No limitations were applied to the date of publication. The following keywords and MeSH terms were used: “gingiva”, “displacement”, “troughing”, “retraction”, and “laser”. Results Out of 344 studies found, 25 records were included for review. Laser systems are efficient in gingival retraction, allowing better intraoperative haemostasis control and postoperative patient comfort than other surgical troughing procedures. Laser- mediated gingival displacement seems to be safe particularly in the case of thick gingival biotype. Conclusions As regards laser-related issues in prosthodontics such as pre-setting protocols of laser devices, the best laser system in gingival retraction, their use around implants and effectiveness compared to other troughing systems, further in vitro, in vivo, and randomized controlled trial studies are needed.