Effects of Superpulsed Low-level Laser Therapy on Temporomandibular Joint Pain

Effects of Superpulsed Low-level Laser Therapy on Temporomandibular Joint Pain

This randomized double-blind study evaluated the effectiveness of superpulsed low-level laser therapy (SLLLT) compared with ibuprofen and placebo in managing temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) related to disc displacement without reduction or osteoarthritis. A total of 99 patients were divided into three groups: SLLLT (39 patients, 10 sessions), ibuprofen (30 patients, 800 mg twice daily for 10 days), and sham laser placebo (30 patients). Pain intensity (VAS) and mandibular function were assessed throughout treatment and follow-up. Results showed that SLLLT significantly reduced pain compared with both ibuprofen and placebo from day 5 onward (P=0.0001). Additionally, improvements in active and passive mouth opening and lateral motions were more evident in the SLLLT group after 1 month (P=0.0001). Overall, SLLLT demonstrated superior efficacy in pain relief and functional recovery, proving its effectiveness as a noninvasive therapy for TMD.

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Effectiveness of Laser-Assisted Teeth Bleaching: A Systematic Review

Effectiveness of Laser-Assisted Teeth Bleaching: A Systematic Review

This systematic review evaluated 40 studies (in vitro and in vivo) to assess how lasers affect the whitening of natural teeth and dental restorative materials, compared to conventional bleaching. Diode lasers (808-980 nm) were used most often; about a quarter of these showed better whitening than standard methods. KTP, Er: YAG, and Er,Cr: YSGG lasers also demonstrated beneficial effects, though with more variability in efficacy and longer exposure in some cases. In contrast, argon and AsGaAl lasers were generally not more effective than conventional bleaching. Restorative materials, such as composites and ceramics, showed limited or no substantial whitening; composites in some studies even suffered adverse changes in surface properties and increased risk of future discoloration. The review concludes that laser-assisted bleaching can improve outcomes for natural teeth, but more research is needed, especially regarding safety and effects on restorative materials.

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Examining the Efficacy of a 405 nm Wavelength Diode Laser as a Diagnostic Tool in Routine Dental Practice

Examining the Efficacy of a 405 nm Wavelength Diode Laser as a Diagnostic Tool in Routine Dental Practice

Recent advancements in dental diagnostics highlight laser fluorescence (LF) as a promising tool. This report explores the use of a 405 nm diode laser in treating biofilm-induced gingivitis and diagnosing restorations and caries in two patients (24-year-old male, 21-year-old female). In the first case, the laser improved visualization of plaque and calculus, aiding patient education and enabling precise mechanical debridement for better gingivitis treatment outcomes. In the second case, it detected defective composite fillings, supporting accurate diagnosis and patient communication for re-treatment. The 405 nm diode laser proves valuable for periodontal care and restorative dentistry.

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Laser Technology in Dentistry: From Clinical Applications to Future Innovations

Laser Technology in Dentistry: From Clinical Applications to Future Innovations

This narrative review thoroughly examines how laser technology is used in modern dentistry, based on 67 studies from 2018 to 2023. It covers the latest advancements, such as photobiomodulation (PBM), which speeds up tissue healing and controls inflammation. The review also highlights new applications in dental implants, root canal treatments, and teeth whitening. Findings show that lasers greatly improve the accuracy of dental procedures and enhance patient results. However, challenges like high costs and the need for specialized training slow their widespread use. The review stresses the importance of incorporating lasers into everyday dental practice and points to opportunities for future innovations in the field.


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Measurement of Light Energy Transmission Through Dental Hard Tissue at 450 nm, 650 nm, 810 nm, and 980 nm

Measurement of Light Energy Transmission Through Dental Hard Tissue at 450 nm, 650 nm, 810 nm, and 980 nm

This study, titled “Quantifying light energy from 450 nm, 650 nm, 810 nm, and 980 nm wavelength lasers delivered through dental hard tissue” (Lasers in Dental Science, 2022), investigated ex vivo how much light energy from four laser wavelengths penetrates dental crowns to reach the pulp, using 30 extracted human teeth (incisors, premolars, molars).

At 0.5 W for 10 s (5 J total), results showed light transmission strongly depended on wavelength and crown thickness (P < 0.05); tooth type only significantly affected the 450 nm wavelength.

Measured absorption coefficients (µ) were approximately: 980 nm ≈ 2.55 cm⁻¹, 810 nm ≈ 2.45 cm⁻¹, 650 nm ≈ 1.87 cm⁻¹, and 450 nm ≈ 5.42 cm⁻¹ (±10%).

The study concludes that substantial attenuation by hard tissue should be considered in clinical practice to ensure sufficient light energy reaches the pulp for effective photobiomodulation.

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