Photobiomodulation and Lasers

Photobiomodulation is discussed to be a noninvasive method to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. The stimulatory effect of low-level laser therapy is well known and includes enhancement in tissue growth and tissue regeneration, resolvement of inflammation and pain. In recent research projects, the effect of laser therapy was tested regarding the stimulatory effect on bone remodeling with the potential to influence the tooth movement rate. The results are divers. The effect of laser regarding the reduction of the postadjustment pain could be proved, but not all authors describe the acceleration of tooth movement. Depending on the protocol, low-level laser therapy with low dosage increases the amount of tooth movement while high dosage seems to result in inhibitory effects. In conclusion, future studies are necessary to find the right protocol delivering beneficial results regarding the influence on bone remodeling and tooth movement to implement this therapy in daily orthodontic routine.