Which method is more effective for accelerating canine distalization short term, low-level laser therapy or...

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Biotechnology
• Dental Research

Background:

• Orthodontic tooth movement can be accelerated using adjunctive therapies.
• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and piezocision are two such modalities.
• Comparing their efficacy in canine distalization is crucial for clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the effects of LLLT and piezocision on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement.
• To assess the impact of these therapies on canine distalization and tooth angulation.

Main Methods:

• A split-mouth study involving 20 patients (40 maxillary canines) undergoing miniscrew-supported canine distalization.
• Piezocision applied to one canine, while the contralateral canine received LLLT (940 nm, 5 J/cm²).
• Measurements of tooth movement and angulation were taken at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• LLLT resulted in significantly greater canine tooth movement during the initial 4-week period compared to piezocision.
• No significant differences in tooth movement were found between LLLT and piezocision at 8 or 12 weeks.
• Cephalometric analysis showed no significant differences in canine or first molar angulation between the two groups.

Conclusions:

• LLLT appears to be more effective in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement during the initial phase of canine distalization.
• Over a 12-week period, LLLT and piezocision exhibit comparable outcomes for canine distalization.
• Neither method significantly impacted canine or first molar angulation.