Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026

07:32
Author Spotlight: 3D Movement Assessment of Maxillary Posterior Teeth in Clear Aligner Treatment
Published on: February 23, 2024
2.0K
Evaluation of an Optimized Photobiomodulation Protocol for Accelerated Tooth Movement
Anupama V Jain1, Shrinivas M Basavraddi1, Roopak Naik1
1Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Shree Dharmastala Manjunathesawara College of Dental Sciences, Dharwad, IND.
Cureus
|February 19, 2026
Summary
Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, when combined with orthodontic force, significantly accelerates maxillary tooth movement and extraction space closure by 40%. This pilot study suggests PBM can reduce orthodontic treatment time.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Biotechnology
- Periodontology
Background:
- Photobiomodulation (PBM) stimulates periodontal ligament cells, aiding bone remodeling.
- PBM synergizes with orthodontic forces to potentially accelerate tooth movement and shorten treatment duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the monthly rate of maxillary en-masse extraction-space closure over five months.
- To evaluate the efficacy of PBM combined with standard orthodontic force versus standard force alone.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, parallel-arm, single-blinded pilot study with control and PBM groups.
- Standard orthodontic force (300g NiTi coil spring) applied after first bicuspid extraction.
- PBM group received 810 nm diode laser irradiation four times monthly to anterior teeth.
Main Results:
- The PBM group demonstrated a higher monthly rate of space closure (1.09mm/month) compared to the control group (0.7mm/month).
- Tooth movement was 40% faster in patients receiving PBM.
- The difference in monthly space closure rates was statistically significant (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- PBM, when added to orthodontic force, is associated with an increased monthly rate of extraction space closure.
- The PBM protocol and methodology show promise for larger trials investigating accelerated tooth movement and reduced treatment times.

