Effects of single-dose, low-level laser therapy on pain associated with the initial stage of fixed orthodontic treatment: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the analgesic effect of a single application of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on spontaneous pain and pain on chewing after placement of initial archwires.MethodsForty-two patients (26 women, 16 men) were randomly recruited for this split-mouth randomized clinical trial. Each patient received super-elastic nickel-titanium (NiTi) initial archwires (0.012, 0.014, 0.016, and 0.018-inch [in]) in the maxilla for leveling and alignment for an interval of 4 weeks between archwires. One side of the mouth was randomly designated as experimental, while the other side served as placebo. After insertion of each archwire, the experimental side was irradiated with a diode laser for 3 seconds each on 5 points facially and palatally per tooth, from the central incisor to first molar. On the placebo side, the laser device was held the same way but without laser application. A numerical rating scale was used to assess the intensity of spontaneous and masticatory pain for the following 7 days. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare pain scores between sides.ResultsPatients in the LLLT group exhibited significantly lower mean scores for spontaneous pain after insertion of the initial two archwires (0.012-in and 0.014-in NiTi; p < 0.05), while there was no significant difference for 0.016-in and 0.018-in wires between the LLLT and placebo groups. LLLT significantly reduced chewing pain scores (p < 0.05) for all archwires.ConclusionsA single dose of LLLT considerably lessened postoperative pain accompanying the placement of super-elastic NiTi wires for initial alignment and leveling.

Laser assisted orthodontic tooth movement in Saudi population: a randomized clinical trial.

“…Hence, it is generally referred to as "Cold Laser" or Low-level laser. 20,[3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10] Though the precise mechanism of its therapeutic action is obscure, it has been confirmed that its actions are at tissue, cellular and molecular levels.…”

“…In the present study, infrared radiation of 940nm wavelength [8][9][10] and LLLT of wavelength close to lower end of infrared electromagnetic spectrum were used. As the infrared radiation has a low absorption coefficient in haemoglobin and water, it is generally agreed that it has deeper penetration.…”

“…Laser application [9][10] Starting from central incisor to the first molar, at 5 points laser beams was applied on the gingival mucosa for 3 seconds labially/buccally and palatally against each tooth. These points were mesial and distal over the cervical third, middle third and the apical third of the root.…”

“…The use of LLLI in orthodontics is a non-invasive procedure with promising results. [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10] This treatment modality has been used in animal and human studies for various purposes with no adverse effects reported. However, it is always advised that the use of protective equipment and glasses is mandatory since International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has classified most of the lasers that are used in medical and dental practice are type 4 with potential effects on eyes and skin.…”

“…However, it is always advised that the use of protective equipment and glasses is mandatory since International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has classified most of the lasers that are used in medical and dental practice are type 4 with potential effects on eyes and skin. 11 The benefits of adopting LLLI in a routine orthodontic practice may accelerates the rate of OTM with less discomfort and without any disturbance in regular appoinments [9][10] , this has to be investigated. The benefits of using passive SLB over CB system in terms of rate of OTM.…”