Overview on the parameters of low-level diode laser therapy for acceleration orthodontic tooth movement

Abstract

AIMS: The long duration of fixed appliance orthodontic treatment can put patients at high risk of dental caries, enamel demineralization, bone and root resorption and poor compliance. Recently, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been shown as a promising approach for accelerating orthodontic tooth movement, yet its efficacy remains unclear. The wide diversity in laser dosimetry and study methodology plays a critical role in determining treatment outcome. This study aims to provide an overview on the parameters of the low-level diode laser widely applied for speeding up orthodontic tooth movement. MATERIALS AND METHOD: An extensive electronic search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs with a split-mouth design investigating the effectiveness of diode LLLT on accelerating tooth movement was performed through Cochrane Library (Issue 9, 2014), PubMed (1997), Embase (1947) and Web of Science (1956) up to October, 2014. RESULTS: Out of 93 relevant results, five RCTs and three quasi-RCTs with a split-mouth design were selected. The parameters and regimens of diode LLLT were extracted and assessed. It was indicated that a diode laser with wavelength in the range of 780-810 nm, total energy within 0.2-2 J per treatment point or 2-8 J per tooth and 3-6 repeated applications each month after orthodontic force activation was more likely to have favourable accelerating effects. CONCLUSION: A diode laser with optimal parameters was demonstrated to produce positive results. Future research with a better study design and appropriate laser dosimetry is required to confirm the efficacy of diode LLLT in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement. (Supported by Health and Medical Research Fund 01121056)