Soft tissue seal plays a critical role in long-term success of dental implants, and the effects of implant surface treatments such as laser ablation have been a topic of particular interest in this respect. Considering the existing controversy regarding soft tissue behavior in contact with implant surfaces, this study sought to assess the morphology, proliferation, and gene expression of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) on different abutment surfaces. In this in vitro, experimental study, HGFs were cultured on 45 discs (Laser-Lok, titanium, and zirconia). Cell morphology, proliferation rate, and interleukin 10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), fibronectin, and integrin gene expressions were assessed by electron microscopy, methyl thiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assay, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis H test. Fibroblast attachment was noted in all the three groups. Spindle-shaped cells with pseudopod-like processes were more frequently seen in the Laser-Lok group. Cell proliferation was significantly higher in the Laser-Lok group compared to those in the other groups (P = 0.0002). Significant differences were found in the expression of IL-10, TNFα, fibronectin, and integrin genes among the groups (P < 0.01). Within the limitations of this study, HGFs on Laser-Lok surfaces had a more mature morphology and greater proliferation and differentiation as compared to those on zirconia and titanium surfaces. This indicates better attachment of these cells to laser-modified surfaces, creating a more efficient soft tissue seal around dental implants.

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Background: Due to the complications of root canal treatment, conservative modalities to preserve pulp vitality are favorable. Direct pulp capping (DPC) refers to the coverage of the pulp tissue exposed by a biocompatible agent that can improve the prognosis of the tooth by 44% to 95%. Some recent studies have reported more predictable results (a success rate of about 90%) for DPC with laser and regenerative materials such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). This study aimed to clinically compare DPC with ProRoot MTA alone and in combination with Er:YAG (erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet) laser irradiation (2940 nm). Methods: This clinical trial was conducted on 26 patients with a mean age of 29 years (in the range of 17 to 46 years) who required DPC following pulp exposure during deep caries removal. The teeth were divided into two groups. In the control group, the teeth underwent DPC with ProRoot MTA while in the test group, the teeth were first irradiated with a 2940 nm Er:YAG laser and then underwent DPC with ProRoot MTA. The patients were recalled at one, 3 and 6 months for the follow-up (clinical and radiographic examinations). The data were analyzed using Fisher exact test. Results: The success rate was 75% in the laser group and 93% in the control group. The groups were not significantly different (P>0.05). Conclusion:No significant difference was found in terms of the success rate of DPC with ProRoot MTA alone and in combination with Er:YAG laser irradiation.

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