Gingival inflammation (gingivitis) is the early stage of periodontal disease, characterised by redness, swelling, and bleeding. If left untreated, this condition may progress to periodontitis, leading to the destruction of the tooth-supporting tissues. In addition to mechanical procedures (scaling and root planing) and pharmacological therapy, laser technology offers an advanced approach for detecting inflammation in periodontal tissues.
One of the latest diagnostic innovations is non-invasive photoacoustic imaging based on near-infrared diode lasers, developed to detect gingival inflammation. Research conducted by a Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) student, Atika Windra Sari, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Mitrayana, S.Si., M.Si.; Dr. drg. Rini Widyaningrum, M.Biotech.; and Dr. Andreas Setiawan, S.Si., M.T., entitled “Non-Invasive Photoacoustic Imaging Based on Near-Infrared Diode Lasers for the Detection of Gingival Inflammation,” demonstrated that this technology is capable of mapping gingival tissue conditions without the need for biopsy or invasive procedures.
Principles and Mechanisms of Laser Use in Periodontology
1. Photoacoustic Imaging
- Principle: Near-infrared laser light is directed at the tissue and absorbed by chromophores (such as hemoglobin). Light absorption causes microthermal expansion, generating ultrasonic waves that are then detected.
- Advantages: The combination of optical contrast (reflecting biological tissue properties) and ultrasonic resolution enables mapping of tissue depth and vascular conditions without causing tissue damage.
- UGM research indicates that this technology can detect differences in tissue characteristics between inflamed and healthy gingiva, opening opportunities for real-time inflammation monitoring.
2. Laser Therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy / Photobiomodulation)
- In addition to imaging, low-level lasers (red/NIR) can stimulate healing by reducing inflammation, improving blood perfusion, and accelerating tissue regeneration.
- Several studies in the literature describe photobiomodulation as an adjunctive therapy in periodontal treatment, although further clinical research is still required.
Benefits and Clinical Potential
- Early detection: Laser photoacoustic imaging enables earlier identification of gingival inflammation before clinical signs become clearly visible.
- Non-invasive and safe: No need for probes, biopsies, or direct tissue manipulation.
- Quantitative data: The generated ultrasonic signals can be measured, evaluated, and compared longitudinally.
- Combination therapy: After detection, laser therapy or photobiomodulation can be applied to the identified inflamed areas as a preventive measure.
Challenges and Future Research Directions
- Limited large-scale clinical validation: Sensitivity and specificity still need to be tested in real periodontal patient populations.
- Artifacts from hard structures (teeth, enamel) or metal restorations may affect photoacoustic signal quality.
- Optimization of laser parameters (wavelength, power, duration) for gingival tissues.
- Integration of imaging and intervention systems into a single, practical, and affordable clinical device.
References
Atika Windra Sari, Prof. Dr. Mitrayana, S.Si., M.Si., Dr. drg. Rini Widyaningrum, M.Biotech., Dr. Andreas Setiawan, S.Si., M.T., PENCITRAAN FOTOAKUSTIK NON-INVASIF BERBASIS LASER DIODA NEAR-INFRARED UNTUK MENDETEKSI INFLAMASI GINGIVA, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/245005
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
