Digital Dental Tech LabSeoul National Univeristy School of Dentistry

Objectives: This systematic review aimed to synthesize and critically evaluate the existing evidence on factors influencing the performance of laser-assisted retrieval of cement-retained implant-supported dental restorations from implant abutments.

Data sources: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched until March 2025 without language restrictions, along with a manual search of references from relevant studies.

Study selection: Eligible studies included original research investigating laser-assisted removal or retrieval of implant-supported prostheses from abutments, considering variables related to cements, prosthetic materials, abutments, or laser parameters. Finally, seven in vitro studies were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Checklist for Reporting In Vitro Studies. Outcomes included removal time, bond strength, temperature generation, and preservation of restoration and abutment structures.

Conclusions: The findings from this systematic review of in vitro studies indicate that laser-assisted retrieval of cement-retained implant restorations is influenced by multiple factors, including the type and thickness of restorative materials, cement characteristics, and laser power settings. Both erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) and erbium, chromium-doped yttrium scandium gallium garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) lasers effectively retrieved restorations without causing structural damage due to thermal effects. Further clinical validation is recommended to establish optimal laser parameters, as these can affect retrieval efficiency and thermal generation.

Clinical significance: Available in vitro evidence suggests that Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers have potential for clinically efficient and safe retrieval of implant-supported restorations with minimal thermal damage, preserving ceramic restorations and abutments for reuse, reducing procedure time, avoiding unnecessary replacement, lowering costs, and improving prosthodontic efficiency.