As part of the paradigm shift toward more minimally invasive surgical procedures, increasing numbers of references to laser-mediated flapless crown lengthening are noted in the published literature. The vast majority of these references are noncontrolled case reports or technique-focused articles. Therefore, prospective, randomized controlled studies that objectively examine the safety and efficacy of flapless crown lengthening are lacking. The current case series represents an initial attempt to examine some of the clinical issues posed by this minimally invasive flapless approach. Ultimately, only well-designed controlled clinical trials can yield the type of evidence-based data necessary to categorize this approach to crown lengthening as standard-of-care treatment. (Int J Periodontics Restorative Dent 2011;31:357-364.).
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