Photobiomodulation in Temporomandibular Disorders

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Laser Therapy
• Pain Management

Background:

• Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) involve temporomandibular joint dysfunction and masticatory muscle pain.
• Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is explored as an adjunctive treatment for TMD due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
• Standardized protocols for PBMT in TMD are lacking, necessitating a comprehensive review.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review all available literature on PBMT for TMD patients.
• To propose an evidence-based protocol for therapeutic PBMT administration in TMD.
• To identify optimal parameters for PBMT in managing TMD symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of original articles on PBMT for TMDs was conducted.
• Databases searched included EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.
• Data extraction focused on PBMT parameters, application sites, and reported outcomes.

Main Results:

• PBMT demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain and improving mandibular function in TMD patients.
• Optimal parameters identified include GaAlAs diode laser (800-900 nm, 100-500 mW, <10 J/cm²), applied twice weekly for 30 days on trigger points.
• Reported energy densities ranged from 0.75 to 112.5 J/cm² with power from 0.9-500 mW.

Conclusions:

• PBMT is a promising therapeutic option for managing TMD symptoms, particularly pain and functional deficits.
• Despite positive outcomes, heterogeneity in study parameters complicates standardization.
• Further research with standardized protocols is recommended for clinical application and future studies.