Effect of Diode Laser Therapy on Post-Extraction Healing in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Clinical Report

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with impaired wound healing and delayed recovery following dental extractions. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has shown potential in enhancing tissue repair, particularly in patients with compromised healing. Objectives To evaluate the effect of diode laser therapy on bleeding control and soft tissue healing after tooth extraction in patients with controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods Six patients with type 2 diabetes requiring dental extractions were included. Medical histories were reviewed, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels confirmed glycemic control, and panoramic radiographs ruled out periapical pathology. Extractions were performed under local anesthesia. Postoperatively, LLLT was applied using an 808-nm diode laser at 0.3 J energy output for 60 seconds to occlusal, vestibular, and lingual/palatal surfaces. A placebo laser application was performed in control sites. Results Diode laser therapy resulted in a reduction in both the amount and duration of postoperative bleeding, attributed to enhanced clot stability. Improved soft tissue healing was observed in laser-treated sites compared with placebo-treated sites. Conclusion LLLT using an 808-nm diode laser appears to promote hemostasis and accelerate soft tissue healing following dental extraction in patients with type 2 diabetes. These findings suggest a potential role for diode laser therapy as an adjunctive treatment in managing diabetic patients undergoing dental surgery.