Management of an Immediate Implant Horizontal Defect Using Freeze-Dried Bone Allograft and a Neodymium:Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet Laser

Introduction: A contemporary protocol for managing horizontal alveolar defects adjacent to immediate implants includes placement of a well-designed provisional restoration to contain graft material and seal the socket. However, immediate provisionalization is not always possible or practical.Case Presentation: A 39-year-old male presented with a non-restorable tooth #29, which was extracted. An immediate implant was placed in the tooth #29 position, and a freeze-dried bone allograft was placed in the horizontal defect between the implant platform and osseous walls. A neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser was used to create a stable fibrin clot over the graft material. After 31 months, favorable radiographic bone levels and complete papilla fill were noted.Conclusion: The present case illustrates use of an Nd:YAG laser in the management of an immediate implant horizontal defect in lieu of an immediate provisional restoration.