Intraoral photobiomodulation-induced orthodontic tooth alignment: a preliminary study

Effect of led photobiomodulation on tooth movement, gingival hypertrophy and pain in response to treatment with fixed orthodontic appliance

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a form of treatment that uses low-power red and near-infrared light to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration at the cellular level. 32 subjects (198 teeth examined), 10 males and 22 females aged 14.6 ± 2.0 years, with mild dental crowding were included in a randomised, controlled clinical trial. The patients were treated with a fixed orthodontic appliance (FOA). Subjects were randomised into an experimental group (a PBM group irradiated with an LED light source with wavelengths of 625 nm, 660 nm and 850 nm simultaneously and an irradiance of 16 mW/cm²) and a placebo control group that received non-therapeutic irradiation with visible light. PBM therapy began within the first 2 days of appliance insertion and was administered twice weekly for 4 weeks. The rate of tooth movement (a change in distance at the same selected point on the occlusal plane of the tooth determined by measurements on 3D models), the presence of gingival hypertrophy (with a free gingival margin of at least 1 mm occlusal to the enamel-cement junction), the plaque index (PI), the sulcus bleeding index (SBI) and the subjective pain sensation using the visual analogue scale (VAS) were monitored. In the experimental PBM group (N = 14), the rate of movement with the FOA was statistically significantly higher at both 1 week of placement (0.5 mm [95%CI: 0.4-0.8]) and 4 weeks (1.1 mm [95%CI: 0.8-1.4]) than in the placebo group (N = 18), where the values were (0.4 mm [95%CI: 0.2-0.5]) at 1 week and (0.6 mm [95%CI: 0.4-0.9]) at 4 weeks. A lower incidence of gingival hypertrophy was observed in the PBM group (21.4%) than in the placebo group (55.6%) after 4 weeks (Mann-Whitney U-test, p < 0.05). PBM with LED accelerated orthodontic tooth movement during the levelling and alignment phase and reduced the incidence of gingival hypertrophy.

Effectiveness of Surgical and Non-Surgical Techniques for Accelerating Orthodontic Tooth Movement in Fixed Appliances and Aligners: A Systematic Review

Several procedures have been proposed as adjuvant treatments in orthodontics to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). This review aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of surgical and non-surgical techniques in accelerating tooth movement, ascertain the influence of different orthodontic appliances on the rate of tooth movement and analyze their clinical applicability as supportive approaches in orthodontic treatment. A bibliographic search was carried out in April 2024 across Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library using combinations of keywords and Medical Subject Heading terms relevant to the topic. The search had no time restriction and was limited to studies published in English. A total of 76 articles were included in this systematic review. Corticotomy exhibited the highest acceleration potential among surgical techniques but is highly invasive and associated with considerable pain and discomfort. Among non-surgical techniques, vibration and photobiomodulation (PBM) showed the most promising results due to their non-invasiveness and effectiveness in accelerating tooth movement. This review provides a comprehensive overview of techniques for accelerating OTM. The literature remains limited in involving surgical and non-surgical procedures using orthodontic aligners, highlighting the need for further research. Considering all the pros and cons, PBM appears to be the most promising technique; however, its effectiveness is yet suboptimal. Future efforts should be dedicated to optimizing PBM protocols to stimulate specific remodeling phenomena, ensuring its establishment as a safe, effective, painless, and non-invasive acceleration technique.

Evaluation of the Effect of Low-level Laser Therapy on Leveling Mandibular Anterior Crowding

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on leveling mandibular anterior crowding and associated pain levels.

Methods

This double-blinded, parallel, randomized clinical trial included 30 participants who were randomly assigned to the laser group or the control group, with Little's irregularity index of 4-8 mm in the mandibular canine-canine region. Nickel-titanium archwires measuring 0.012 inches were tied with elastomeric ligatures and changed every 14 days throughout the leveling process. The leveling duration was recorded in days, from the bonding application to the end of leveling. Irradiation was performed at an 810-nm wavelength using a gallium-aluminum-arsenide diode laser device with a power output of 100 mW and an energy density of 8 J/cm². Laser applications were performed after archwire ligation (day 0), on days 3, 7, and 14 and every 14 days until leveling was completed. The leveling duration was calculated, and pain levels were evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS) after archwire ligation (hour 0), at hours 2 and 6 and on days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21.

Results

The leveling duration showed no significant differences between the laser and control groups (p=0.170). Group comparison results of the VAS scores at hour 6 (p=0.001) and day 1 (p=0.006) exhibited significantly reduced pain levels in the laser group compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Although LLLT is not effective in reducing the leveling duration, it significantly reduces pain levels at hour 6 and on the 1st day.

Clinical and preclinical evidence on the bioeffects and movement-related implications of photobiomodulation in the orthodontic tooth movement: A systematic review

Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been demonstrated as a non-invasive and painless technique with great potential to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). However, there is a great inconsistency among PBM protocols and reported outcomes, probably due to the poor translatability of preclinical knowledge into early clinical practice. Hence, this review aims to fill this gap by establishing the state-of-the-art on both preclinical and clinical applications of PBM, and by comprehensively discussing the most suitable stimulation protocols described in the literature. This review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. A bibliographic search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane databases using a combination of keywords. Only studies written in English were eligible and no time limit was applied. A total of 69 studies were selected for this review. The revised literature describes that PBM can effectively reduce orthodontic treatment time and produce analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. We found that PBM of 640 ± 25, 830 ± 20 and 960 ± 20 nm, delivered at a minimum energy density per irradiation point of 5 J/cm2 daily or every other day sessions is robustly associated with increased tooth movement rate. Pain relief seems to be achieved with lower irradiation doses compared to those required for OTM acceleration. For the first time, the bioeffects induced by PBM for the acceleration of OTM are comprehensively discussed from a translational point of view. Collectively, the evidence from preclinical and clinical trials supports the use of PBM as a coadjuvant in orthodontics for enhancing tooth movement and managing treatment-associated discomfort. Overall, the revised studies indicate that optimal PBM parameters to stimulate tissue remodelling are wavelengths of 830 ± 20 nm and energy densities of 5-70 J/cm2 applied daily or every other day can maximize the OTM rate, while lower doses (up to 16 J/cm2 per session) delivered in non-consecutive days seem to be optimal for inducing analgesic effects. Future research should focus on optimizing laser parameters and treatment protocols customized for tooth and movement type. By fine-tuning laser parameters, clinicians can potentially reduce treatment times, improve patient comfort and achieve more predictable outcomes, making orthodontic care more efficient and patient-friendly, thus consolidating PBM usage in orthodontics.

Periodontal response to nonsurgical accelerated orthodontic tooth movement

Tooth movement is a complex process involving the vascularization of the tissues, remodeling of the bone cells, and periodontal ligament fibroblasts under the hormonal and neuronal regulation mechanisms in response to mechanical force application. Therefore, it will inevitably impact periodontal tissues. Prolonged treatment can lead to adverse effects on teeth and periodontal tissues, prompting the development of various methods to reduce the length of orthodontic treatment. These methods are surgical or nonsurgical interventions applied simultaneously within the orthodontic treatment. The main target of nonsurgical approaches is modulating the response of the periodontal tissues to the orthodontic force. They stimulate osteoclasts and osteoclastic bone resorption in a controlled manner to facilitate tooth movement. Among various nonsurgical methods, the most promising clinical results have been achieved with photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. Clinical data on electric/magnetic stimulation, pharmacologic administrations, and vibration forces indicate the need for further studies to improve their efficiency. This growing field will lead to a paradigm shift as we understand the biological response to these approaches and their adoption in clinical practice. This review will specifically focus on the impact of nonsurgical methods on periodontal tissues, providing a comprehensive understanding of this significant and understudied aspect of orthodontic care.

Effect of 850 nm LED irradiation on the alignment of crowded mandibular anterior teeth: a randomized controlled clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to determine if intraoral 850 nm LED irradiation could reduce the duration of lower anterior crowding alignment.

METHODS

In a parallel-designed, randomized controlled clinical trial 60 patients with 2 to 6 mm of lower incisor crowding who need non-extraction treatment, were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups by block randomization (36 females, 24 males, mean age: 19.93 ± 3.05). MBT brackets (0.022 × 0.28-inch) were bonded for both groups and the NiTi wires in sequences were put in place until correction of crowding. The intra-oral LED device with a wavelength of 850 nm and power density of 70 mW/cm2 was used for 5 min per day in the intervention group. The control group did not receive any light. The primary outcome was the duration of crowding correction. The patient's pain according the modified McGill pain questionnaire was the secondary outcome. The Cox regression model was used to compare groups. Mann-Whitney test was used for pain analysis.

RESULTS

The crowding at baseline was the same between the two groups (P > 0.05). Duration of treatment in the intervention group was 104.7 days (95% CI: 95.6 -113.8) and significantly shorter than 161.9 days (95% CI: 151.5 -171.2) in the control group. The control group experienced a significantly higher pain score of 6.8 (95% CI: 6.1-7.5) immediately after archwire placement than the intervention group 5.4 (95% CI: 4.6-6.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Intra-oral LED 850 nm significantly decreased the relieving time of lower incisor crowding by up to 36% and reduced pain experience.

Comparative Evaluation of LED Light Application and Heat Generation with Three Different Wavelengths of Frequency on Soft Tissues in Bringing Faster Orthodontic Tooth Movement: A Finite Element Model Study

Background

The duration of orthodontic treatment is often a significant deterrent for patients when considering conventional mechanics, which can be time-consuming. Photobiomodulation (PBM) utilizes visible red to near-infrared wavelengths of light frequencies to expedite orthodontic treatment time.

Objective

To investigate the effect of three Light Emitting Diode (LED) frequencies and their heat generation on soft tissues in accelerating tooth movement through Finite Element Method (FEM) study.

Material and Methods

In this FEM study, a three-dimensional FEM model of the skull of a male patient with mild to moderate crowding in the maxilla, and mandible. The dentitions were scanned using a Computed Tomography (CT). A static force of 70 gm on the anterior region of the maxilla and mandible was applied from the labial sides, and a second static analysis was carried out by using both a 70 gm of force and thermal load with three different frequencies of 740, 850, and 940 nm on the 1st and 3rd quadrants. The effect of LED application and heat generation was assessed on soft tissues in bringing faster orthodontic tooth movement.

Results

Increased tooth movement with combined loading case in the 1st and 3rd quadrants when compared with the 2nd and 4th quadrants. The temperature distribution was higher at 940 nm followed by 740 & 850 nm of frequency.

Conclusion

Faster movements were observed in the combined loading case in the 1st and 3rd quadrants compared to static loading in other quadrants. Heat generation was higher with 940 nm frequency followed by 740 and 850 nm.

Accelerated Orthodontics: A Descriptive Bibliometric Analysis of the Top 50 Cited Articles from 2012 to 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Accelerated orthodontics represents a significant shift in dental practice aimed at reducing treatment times while maintaining optimal patient outcomes. This bibliometric analysis evaluated the research landscape of accelerated orthodontics from 2012 to 2023, focusing on publication trends, citation patterns, influential journals, leading institutions, and key contributors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive search in Scopus identified 600 relevant articles, with the top 50 most-cited papers encompassing systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and experimental studies. Key techniques, such as corticotomy and piezocision, have been frequently highlighted for their effectiveness in expediting tooth movement.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed fluctuating annual scientific outputs, with notable peaks driven by technological advancements and increased patient demand for quicker orthodontic solutions. However, the production of high-impact papers was hindered by delays in citation accumulation and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Keyword analysis identified critical themes, such as orthodontic tooth movement, malocclusion, and demographic factors, while a global collaboration map underscored extensive international research partnerships. Leading journals included the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, and prominent institutions such as the University of California at Los Angeles played significant roles in advancing the field.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of accelerated orthodontics, emphasizing the need for continued research, particularly RCTs, to further refine and validate accelerated orthodontic techniques and improve clinical outcomes.

Photobiomodulation in Orthodontics: Mechanisms and Clinical Efficacy for Faster Tooth Movement

Accelerated orthodontics has revolutionized traditional dental practices by employing innovative techniques to expedite tooth movement and enhance treatment outcomes. Among these advancements, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has emerged as a promising adjunctive method that offers a non-invasive and efficient approach to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. By harnessing the power of low-level lasers, LLLT aims to stimulate cellular activity, promote bone remodeling, and reduce treatment duration, thereby revolutionizing the landscape of orthodontic care. In this review, we discuss the mechanism of action, methods, efficacy, advantages, limitations, and future scope of LLLT, uncovering its transformative impact on the field of accelerated orthodontics.

Effects of low level laser on periodontal tissue remodeling in hPDLCs under tensile stress

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on human Periodontal Ligament Cells (hPDLCs) under tension stress. Primary hPDLCs were obtained using the tissue culture method, and P3 cells were utilized for the subsequent experiments. The study comprised four groups: a blank control group (Group B), a laser irradiation group (Group L), a tension stress group (Group T), and a laser + tension stress group (Group LT). Mechanical loading was applied using an in-vitro cell stress loading device at a frequency of 0.5 Hz and deformation of 2% for two hours per day for two days. Laser irradiation at 808 nm GaAlAs laser was administered 1 h after force loading. Cell samples were collected after the experiment. Bone and fiber remodeling factors were analyzed using PCR and Western blot. Flow cytometry was employed to assess the cell cycle, while ROS and Ca2+ levels were measured using a multifunctional enzyme labeling instrument. The results revealed that laser intervention under tension stress inhibited the expression of osteogenic differentiation factors, promoted the expression of osteoclast differentiation factors, and significantly increased the production of collagen factors, MMPs, and TIMPs. The LT group exhibited the most active cell cycle (P < 0.05). LLLT not only enhanced Ca2+ expression in hPDLCs under tension stress, but also stimulated the production of ROS. Overall, our findings demonstrate that LLLT effectively accelerated the proliferation of hPDLCs and the remodeling of periodontal tissue, possibly through the regulation of ROS and Ca2+ levels in hPDLCs.

Effect of light-emitting photobiomodulation therapy on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement : A randomized controlled clinical trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of light-emitting photobiomodulation therapy (LPT) on the rate of canine distalization.

METHODS

This study was performed on 60 extraction spaces formed by extraction of the upper first premolars of 30 patients (15 in the LPT group and 15 in the control group). Paul Gjessing (PG)-segmented canine retraction springs were used for canine distalization. In the LPT group, the Biolux OrthoPulse™ (Biolux Research Ltd, Vancouver, Canada) intraoral device (wavelength 850 nm LED light and an energy density of 63 mW/cm2 [±13 mW/cm2]) was used for 5 min per day over a period of 84 days. For each patient, the diagnosis was based on standard orthodontic documentation with photographs, digital model casts, and cephalometric and panoramic radiographs. The anchorage loss, canine rotations, canine inclinations, and molar inclinations were also evaluated on plaster models obtained on days 0, 21, 42, 63, and 84. The models were measured by using 3Shape OrthoAnalyzer software (3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark). Measurements were made by a researcher and a blinded clinician. For statistical comparison, a paired-samples t‑test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used at the p < 0.05 level.

RESULTS

The mean canine distalization rates were 1.36 mm/21 days and 1.02 mm/21 days in the LPT and control groups, respectively, and were statistically greater in the LPT group (p < 0.001). The amount of anchorage loss, canine rotations, canine inclinations and molar inclinations were not significantly different between the LPT and control groups at any of the timepoints.

CONCLUSION

LPT has the potential to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement by 33%.

Photobiomodulation therapy assisted orthodontic tooth movement: potential implications, challenges, and new perspectives

Over the past decade, dramatic progress has been made in dental research areas involving laser therapy. The photobiomodulatory effect of laser light regulates the behavior of periodontal tissues and promotes damaged tissues to heal faster. Additionally, photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), a non-invasive treatment, when applied in orthodontics, contributes to alleviating pain and reducing inflammation induced by orthodontic forces, along with improving tissue healing processes. Moreover, PBMT is attracting more attention as a possible approach to prevent the incidence of orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR) during orthodontic treatment (OT) due to its capacity to modulate inflammatory, apoptotic, and anti-antioxidant responses. However, a systematic review revealed that PBMT has only a moderate grade of evidence-based effectiveness during orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) in relation to OIIRR, casting doubt on its beneficial effects. In PBMT-assisted orthodontics, delivering sufficient energy to the tooth root to achieve optimal stimulation is challenging due to the exponential attenuation of light penetration in periodontal tissues. The penetration of light to the root surface is another crucial unknown factor. Both the penetration depth and distribution of light in periodontal tissues are unknown. Thus, advanced approaches specific to orthodontic application of PBMT need to be established to overcome these limitations. This review explores possibilities for improving the application and effectiveness of PBMT during OTM. The aim was to investigate the current evidence related to the underlying mechanisms of action of PBMT on various periodontal tissues and cells, with a special focus on immunomodulatory effects during OTM.

Effect of low-level laser therapy on orthodontic dental alignment: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study is to systematically summarize the available evidence regarding low-level laser therapy (LLLT) speed-up effect on dental alignment in comprehensive orthodontic treatment. An extensive electronic search was conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus up to February 20, 2023. The Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Form were used by two authors independently to assess the risk of bias (RoB). Statistical analysis was performed by Review Manager 5.3. The eight eligible trials were reviewed and included in qualitative synthesis. Four studies reported the overall time of leveling and alignment (OLAT, days), enabling a synthesizing of the data. The meta-analysis results showed that LLLT significantly reduced the overall time of leveling and alignment compared to control group (MD=-30.36, 95% CI range -41.50 to -19.22, P<0.0001), with moderate heterogeneity (χ2=4.10, P=0.25, I2=27%). Based on the data available, statistically significant evidence with moderate risk of bias suggests that LLLT may have a positive effect on accelerating dental alignment. However, due to the differences in intervention strategy and evaluating method, the conclusions should be interpreted with caution.

Efficiency of photobiomodulation on accelerating the tooth movement in the alignment phase of orthodontic treatment-A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

To investigate the efficiency of photobiomodulation on accelerating the tooth movement in the alignment phase of orthodontic treatment.

Materials and methods

The data search was performed with PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Randomized clinical trials and controlled clinical trials evaluating the efficiency of photobiomodulation on accelerating tooth movement in the alignment phase were selected, and the characteristics of the included studies were collected in a customized data form. Data analysis was conducted by the random-effects model after risk of bias and certainty of evidence were assessed.

Results

Five randomized clinical trials and three controlled clinical trials were included in the final analysis. All included studies reported positive results except the study of Shehawy et al. The results of the analysis showed that photobiomodulation significantly increased the rate of tooth movement and reduced the treatment duration, compared with the control group. Although the heterogeneity was large among the included studies, it was improved after subgroup analysis.

Conclusions

This systematic review offered evidence that photobiomodulation can accelerate tooth movement in alignment procedures and reduce treatment time. Future studies are needed to find the best PBM protocol for orthodontic practice.

Three-Dimensional Assessment of the Temporomandibular Joint Changes Following Reversed Twin Block Therapy of Patients With Skeletal Class III Malocclusion in Conjunction With the Photobiomodulation Therapy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Despite the positive effect of the photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) application on animals, the primary role of this technique on the human condyle is still unclear. Several experimental reports have shown the efficacy of PBMT in inducing cellular changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) region during functional treatment of patients with skeletal deformities. Still, the lack of information about its effects on human condyles requires further studies.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of PBMT on the TMJ components following Class III treatment with the reversed twin block (RTB) appliance in growing patients.  Materials and Method: Forty children (12 females, 28 males) between the age of nine and eleven years with skeletal Class III were assigned randomly to the RTB group with photobiomodulation (RTB+PBMT) or the control group (RTB). The PBMT was applied to the TMJ region using an 808-nm wavelength Ga-Al-As semiconductor laser device with 5 Joules/cm2 energydensity on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 of the first month. Afterwards, the irradiation was conducted every 15 days until the end of the treatment. Cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) images were taken before (T1) treatment and following the end of treatment (T2) to assess TMJ and skeletal changes.

RESULTS

Condylar volume was significantly increased in the RTB group only by a mean of 287.97 mm3 (p<0.001). The significantly backward and upward condylar movement was observed in the RTB and RTB+PBMT groups (superior joint space (SJS): 0.26 mm, 0.15 mm; posterior joint space (PJS): 0.42mm, 0.11mm, respectively). The RTB group showed the most remarkable changes. Significant improvement of the sagittal maxilla-mandibular relationship was greater in the RTB+PBMT group compared to the RTB group (p=0.02).

CONCLUSION

There were no considerable differences in the condylar position after Class III treatment between the RTB and the RTB+PBMT groups. But a difference in the condylar volume was noticed between the two group.

Effect of low-level laser therapy on the time needed for leveling and alignment of mandibular anterior crowding

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on overall leveling and alignment time of mandibular anterior crowding and associated pain after initial archwire placement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two females (18-25 years) with mandibular anterior crowding were randomly allocated into laser and control groups. Eligibility criteria included Angle Class I molar relationship and Little's irregularity index (LII) from 4 to 10 mm. Randomization was accomplished with a computer-generated random list. A 0.014-inch copper-nickel-titanium (Cu-NiTi) wire was inserted immediately after bonding of 0.022-inch Roth brackets followed by 0.016-inch Cu-NiTi, 0.016 × 0.022-inch NiTi then 0.017 × 0.025-inch stainless steel wire after completion of alignment. In-Ga-As laser was applied to the mandibular anterior segment in the laser group on days 3, 7, and 14, then at 1 month followed by every 2 weeks until completion of leveling and alignment. Visual analogue scale questionnaires were completed by each patient over 7 days from initial archwire placement. Digital models were used to monitor changes in the irregularity index. Blinding was applicable for outcome assessors only.

RESULTS

The mean time for leveling and alignment was significantly lower in the laser compared to the control group (68.2 ± 28.7 and 109.5 ± 34.7 days, respectively). The laser group displayed a significantly higher mean alignment improvement percentage as well as lower pain scores compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the constraints of the current study, LLLT has a potential for acceleration of anterior segment alignment as well as reduction of the pain associated with placement of initial archwires.

Effect of the photobiomodulation for acceleration of the orthodontic tooth movement: a systematic review and meta-analysis

To determine whether the application of photobiomodulation (PBM), as an adjunctive treatment for patients with orthodontic fixed appliances, decreased the total treatment time compared to conventional orthodontics. Studies were collected from four electronic databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for systematic reviews. Eligibility criteria were full-text articles in English or Spanish with the design of randomized (RCT), non-randomized clinical trials (non-RCT), and retrospective cohort, without any restriction regarding the publication time, in which the effect of PBM using low-level laser irradiation (LLLI) and light-emitting diode (LED) for the acceleration of the orthodontic movement had been evaluated. Data collection and analysis: Two authors independently extracted data for the characteristics and outcomes of the studies selected for inclusion. The risk of bias (RoB 2 and Robins-I) and the quality assessments (GRADE) were performed. For the quantitative synthesis, the standardized mean difference was calculated for each individual study selected and then the data were combined using a random-effects meta-analysis. The total number of included studies was n = 22 (only RCT and non-RCT were found) with a total of 515 participants. The included studies exhibited high risk of bias and some concerns, though none of them presented a low risk of bias. The quality of the studies was very low. The meta-analysis showed that the means (mm) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of acceleration of tooth movement at 1, 2, and 3 months were 0.50 (- 0.28, 1.28), 1.40 (0.27, 2.53), and 0.46 (- 0.33, 1.24), respectively. The analysis showed that there is no evidence to support the use of LLLI to accelerate the orthodontic movement. LED for the acceleration of orthodontic movement does not have sufficient evidence to generate conclusions about it.

The effect of intra-oral LED device and low-level laser therapy on orthodontic tooth movement in young adults: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

This randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to assess the effect of LED⁵ and LLLT⁶ in a three-arm parallel setting.

METHODS

Sixty patients who needed the maxillary first premolar extraction were allocated to three groups using the stratified block randomization method. In the LED group, a custom-made device with a wavelength of 640nm and a power density of 40 mW/cm² was used 5min/day. In the laser group, Ga Al As⁷ laser with a wavelength of 810nm and a power of 100 mW was used on days 0, 3, 30, and 60 each time for 18seconds. Patients in the control group received placebo treatment as the laser group protocol, using a coated light cure device. Models were made at baseline and monthly until the end of the retraction. The rate of canine retraction was the primary outcome, while canine rotation and pain were secondary outcomes. The final data were anonymous for the outcome assessor and statistical consultant. Data were analyzed per protocol using a linear mixed model.

RESULTS

The rate of canine retraction significantly increased by 60.8% in the laser group, while it increased not significantly by 26% in the LED group compared with the control group. There was no significant difference among the groups in terms of tooth rotation and pain.

CONCLUSIONS

LLLT can accelerate orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). LED with the present setting couldn't increase the rate of OTM. LLLT and LED did not affect canine rotation or pain.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

IRCT20120220009086N4. On 1 June 2019 was retrospectively registered.

Impact of photobiomodulation and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound adjunctive interventions on orthodontic treatment duration during clear aligner therapy: A retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficiency of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) and photobiomodulation (PBM) interventions in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement during clear aligner therapy (CAT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study was carried out on the records of 84 subjects who were treated using CAT. Twenty-eight patients were treated using CAT with a daily use of LIPUS for 20 minutes, 28 patients were treated using CAT with a daily use of PBM for 10 minutes, and 28 patients were treated using CAT alone. The total duration of treatment was recorded for all patients. One-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test were used to assess whether there was any significant difference in total treatment duration among the three groups (P < .05).

RESULTS

The mean treatment durations in days were 719 ± 220, 533 ± 242, and 528 ± 323 for the control, LIPUS, and PBM groups, respectively. The LIPUS group showed a 26% reduction, on average, in treatment duration when compared with the control group, whereas the PBM group showed an average 26.6% reduction in the treatment duration when compared with the control group. The results showed that there were statistically significant differences among the groups (P = .011). Treatment durations were significantly reduced in the LIPUS and PBM groups as compared with the control (P = .027 and P = .023, respectively), with no statistically significant differences between the LIPUS and PBM groups (P = .998).

CONCLUSIONS

Daily use of LIPUS or PBM as adjunctive interventions during CAT could reduce the duration of orthodontic treatment.

Effect of light-emitting diode-mediated photobiomodulation on extraction space closure in adolescents and young adults: A split-mouth, randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

This split-mouth trial aimed to examine the effects of light-emitting diode (LED)-mediated photobiomodulation compared with no photobiomodulation on maxillary canine distalization.

METHODS

Twenty participants (10 males and 10 females; aged 11-20 years) requiring bilateral extraction of maxillary first premolars were included from the Sydney Dental Hospital waiting list. After premolar extractions, leveling, and alignment, canines were retracted on 0.020-in stainless steel wires with coil springs delivering 150 g of force to each side. Each patient's right side was randomly assigned to experimental or control using www.randomisation.com, and allocation concealment was performed with sequentially numbered, opaque, sealed envelopes. The experimental side received 850 nm wavelength, 60 mW/cm² power, continuous LED with OrthoPulse device (Biolux Research Ltd, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada) for 5 min/d. For the control side, the device was blocked with opaque black film. Patients were reviewed at 4-week intervals for force reactivation and intraoral scanning over 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the amount of tooth movement, and secondary outcomes were anchorage loss and canine rotation, all measured digitally. Blinding for study participants and the treating clinician was not possible; however, blinding was done for the measurements by deidentifying the digital scans. Linear mixed models were implemented for the data analysis.

RESULTS

Nineteen participants concluded the study. Data analysis showed that the treatment × time interaction was not significant, suggesting no difference in space closure (unstandardized regression coefficient [b], 0.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.05 to 0.29; P = 0.17), canine rotation (b, 0.21; 95% CI, -0.82 to 1.25; P = 0.69), and anchorage loss (b, -0.01, 95% CI, -0.28 to 0.26, P = 0.94). No harms were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily 5-minute application of LED did not result in clinically meaningful differences during extraction space closure compared with no LED application.

REGISTRATION

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12616000652471).

PROTOCOL

The protocol was not published before trial commencement.

FUNDING

This research was funded by the Australian Society of Orthodontists Foundation for Research and Education.

Accelerated orthodontics: Getting ahead of ourselves?

There is disagreement as to what constitutes an acceptable duration for orthodontic treatment but seeming unanimity that acceleration is required. This contention has spawned a range of surgical and non-surgical adjuncts designed to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement, geared at reducing overall treatment times while maintaining optimal occlusal results. Largely, however, marketed non-surgical adjuncts and involved surgical procedures have shown equivocal effectiveness in reducing treatment times. Notwithstanding this, a range of key treatment decisions and approaches may have a more potent effect. While external solutions may offer alluring possibilities, perhaps, more mundane realities including refinement of orthodontic planning and decision-making with efficiency and process, as well as final outcome, in mind continue to offer the most accessible and influential means of improving orthodontic efficiency?

Comparison of rate of orthodontic tooth movement in adolescent patients undergoing treatment by first bicuspid extraction and en-mass retraction, associated with low level laser therapy in passive self-ligating and conventional brackets: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is one of the various interventions to accelerate the rate of Orthodontic Tooth Movement (OTM) in adolescent patients who are undergoing en-mass retraction after all first bicuspid extractions.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of LLLT in increasing the rate of OTM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Setting and sample population: Institutional Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics. Participants, study design and methods: 65 Patients requiring all first premolar extractions were randomly allocated to three groups. Two groups (Comprising of passive self-ligating brackets and conventional brackets) were treated with LLLT and one group served as the control (conventional brackets). The allocation ratio was 1:1:1.32. Eligibility criteria: adolescent patients with sound and healthy permanent dentition with Little's Irregularity Index<5mm.

MAIN OUTCOME

rate of tooth movement in mm/month. Randomization and blinding: computer-generated random allocation sequence; only the data analyser was blinded by coding the digital models. Patients were reviewed once every month till the completion of space closure.

STATISTICS

data normality was checked using Shapiro-Wilks test and Q-Q Plot. Parametric tests were applied for the inferential statistics (ANCOVA) with Dunnett's t test being used for post hoc analysis.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant enhancement in the rate of OTM in the 2 experimental groups (0.68/0.67mm/month in the right and left side of the maxilla and 0.66/0.65mm/month in the right and left side of the mandible) when compared with the control group (0.48mm/month in the maxilla and 0.48mm/month in the mandible) (P<0.05), but when the 2 experimental groups were compared no difference was observed (P>0.05). No serious harms were reported.

CONCLUSION

A significant increase in the rate of OTM was observed with the application of LLLT. No difference was observed in the rate of OTM when comparing different ligation methods treated with LLLT.

REGISTRATION

National Trial Registry (CTRI No- CTRI/2018/04/013156). Protocol was not published before trial commencement.

Comparison of the Effects of Photobiomodulation with Different Lasers on Orthodontic Movement and Reduction of the Treatment Time with Fixed Appliances in Novel Scientific Reports: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

Background: The duration of orthodontic treatment is one of the most important aspects considered by patients. Photobiomodulation (PBM) depends upon the exposure of the tissue to particular, therapeutic wavelengths of light in the "therapeutic window" (from 600 to 1200 nm). PBM increases cell metabolism, which leads to higher ATP production. Increasing the amount of ATP in well-vascularized bone cells promotes cell proliferation and differentiation, creating a favorable environment for tooth movement. Objective: The aim of the study is to discuss and compare the use of PBM in accelerating the orthodontic movement and reducing the time of treatment. Materials and methods: A systematic review was conducted. Literature searches were performed using Medline (PubMed), Web of Science, and Scopus (from September 13 to September 20, 2019). The quality assessment was performed using the Jadad scale for reporting randomized controlled trials for randomized clinical trial and randomized control clinical trial studies, and the Newcastle/Ottawa Quality Assessment Form for case/control studies. Results: Thirty-three articles from PubMed, 46 from Scopus, 5 from Web of Science were selected. After removal of duplicates, 82 articles were analyzed. Subsequently, 74 articles were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. The remaining eight articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Conclusions and summary: PBM is an efficient, effective, and noninvasive method to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. PBM should be introduced into the daily practice of treating various malocclusions as an additional procedure. Intraoral application gives better results and its introduction to treatment seems more reasonable.

Outcome of photodynamic therapy on orthodontic leveling and alignment of mandibular anterior segment: A controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive approach that has drawn attention to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). However, no studies have been published that evaluates the outcome of PDT on orthodontic leveling and alignment. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate outcome of PDT on orthodontic leveling and alignment of mandibular anterior segment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty patients (18 females and 12 males) were included who had moderate mandibular crowding with average age was 19.23 ± 3.1 years. They were randomly divided into a control group without PDT intervention and a laser group. All patients followed non-extraction approach using one category of fixed appliance and matching NiTi archwire sequence for 3 months. In PDT group, methylene blue mediated gallium aluminum arsenide laser was applied with 635 nm, 6.5 J/cm², for 10 s at 10 points (0.2 J/point) started immediately after first wire then at days 3,7,14 of first month and repeated for additional 2 months. Relief of crowding was assessed by Little`s irregularity index (LII) scores after 4, 8, and 12 weeks through scanned 3-dimensional models via a software.

RESULTS

Both groups showed improvements in mandibular crowding as evidenced by significant decreases (p ≤ 0.001) in LII scores during all observation intervals with no significant differences (p > 0.05). Moreover, the alignment`s rate showed no significant differences between groups.

CONCLUSION

PDT produced a negligible effect concerning alignment of crowded mandibular anterior teeth. Besides, OTM's rate at different observation intervals showed an equivalent pattern either with or without PDT.

The Effect of Cigarette Smoking And Low-Level Laser Irradiation in RANK/RANKL/OPG Expression

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and cigarette smoke on alveolar socket osteoclastogenesis signaling after tooth extraction, in rats. Sixty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups with 15 animals each: Control Group (with right maxillary molar extraction - ME), Experimental I (with ME and LLLT), Experimental II (with ME and cigarette smoke) and Experimental III group (with ME, LLLT and cigarette smoke). Euthanasia was performed at 3, 7 and 14 days postoperative. qRT-PCR was used to evaluate expression of Tnfrsf11a (RANK), Tnfsf11 (Rankl) and Tnfrsf11b (OPG). Data were submitted to statistical analysis using two-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni test (α=0.05). There was an upregulation of RANK, RANKL and OPG genes over all the time of healing in Exp I group compared to control group. Exp II group showed a decreased expression of all genes over time, whereas Exp III genes expression were higher than Exp II values but lower than Control and Exp I values over time. The results of this study concluded that the LLLT had a positive effect, whereas cigarette smoke had a negative effect on RANK, RANKL and OPG gene expression in bone remodeling process.

Effect of mini-screw-facilitated micro-osteoperforation on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement: a single-center, split-mouth, randomized, controlled trial

Objective

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of MOP over a 3-month period and to determine the influence of the number of perforations on the rate of canine retraction. In addition, the amount of pain and discomfort caused by the MOP method was evaluated.

Trial design

A single-center, split-mouth, triple-blind, randomized, controlled trial was conducted.

Methods

The clinical trial was conducted from December 2018 to July 2019 in the Orthodontic Clinic, Shiraz Dental School. Twenty-eight patients (range from16.3 to 35.2 years) who need fixed orthodontic treatment were recruited and randomly assigned to MOP1 and MOP2 groups. In each patient one side of the mouth worked as a control side which received no MOPs. Four months after first premolars extraction, patients in MOP1 group received 3 MOPs on the buccal surface of alveolar bone in the experimental side to accelerate canine retraction whereas patients in MOP2 group received 3 buccal MOPs and 3 palatal MOPs in the experimental side. The amount of canine retraction was measured every 28 days at three intervals on both sides of the mouth. Pain perception was also measured on the day of MOP procedure and subsequently at 24 h. Randomization was performed using online software RANDOM.ORG; the recruited patients were divided into two parallel groups with a 1:1 allocation ratio then the side of MOPs intervention in each subject was randomly determined with coin tossing. Triple blinding design was employed.

Results

The result of the intra-examiner reliability using ICC was 0.97 (P <  0.001), indicating excellent repeatability and reliability of the measurements. The baseline characteristics between the groups were similar (P > 0.05). There was a significant difference in the rate of canine retraction between the MOP groups and the contralateral control sides, as well as between the MOP1 and MOP2 groups (P <  0.05).

Conclusion

The MOP procedure was effective in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement, although the amount of acceleration was not clinically significant in the case of canine retraction. An increase in the number of MOPs resulted in a significant acceleration of the canine retraction.

Trial registration

The trial was registered 30 November 2018 at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20181121041713N1).

A Comparative Assessment of the Efficiency of Orthodontic Treatment With and Without Photobiomodulation During Mandibular Decrowding in Young Subjects: A Single-Center, Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To assess if photobiomodulation (PBM) improves the efficiency of orthodontic treatment with fixed appliance during the alignment stage.

Methods: Eighty-nine subjects were included in this trial and randomly assigned for treatment with fixed appliance and PBM group or with fixed appliance only (control group). Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) age between 13 and 30 years, (2) permanent dentition, (3) class I malocclusion, (4) lower 6–6 mild crowding measured on dental cast, (5) no spaces or diastema in the lower arch, (6) no ectopic teeth, (7) nonextractive treatment plan, and (8) no previous orthodontic treatment. PBM was administered in the PBM group every 14 days using the ATP38^® (Biotech Dental, Allée de Craponne, Salon de Provence, France) (72 J/cm² of fluency for each session). Dental alignment was assessed by visual inspection, and treatment time was defined in days as T2 (date of assessment of complete dental alignment)–T1 (date of brackets bonding). The number of monthly scheduled appointments was also recorded. All the data underwent statistical analysis for comparison between groups.

Results: Treatment time was significantly shorter (p < 0.001) in the PBM group (203 days) compared with the control (260 days). Consequently, control visits (p < 0.001) were lower in the PBM group (7) compared with the control group (9).

Conclusions: The present findings would confirm that PBM can be used to enhance the efficiency of orthodontic treatment during dental decrowding.

Photobiomodulation in acceleration of orthodontic tooth movement: A systematic review and meta analysis

BACKGROUND

Photobiomodulation therapy, a non invasive method with no adverse effects, has been used to accelerate tooth movement in orthodontia. However, the specific characteristics of laser settings used in studies documented have reported varied inconsistent conflicting results.

OBJECTIVES

We decided to undertake a systematic review to eliminate this inconsistency by quantifying the literature studies that indicated the link between photobiomodulation and acceleration of tooth movement and to assess if there is any association of photobiomodulation therapy in accelerating tooth movement.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We systematically searched for articles of existing literatures on Photobiomodulation therapy and acceleration of tooth movement over Cochrane library, Pubmed central, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of sciences from 2000 to 2017. Mesh search terms using various descriptors were used to identify the studies.

SEARCH CRITERIA

We included randomized control trial and clinical control trail studies that used Ga-Al-As diode laser and Oseeopulse laser with specific characteristics and company specifications, addressing relevant efficiency and safety outcomes.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Eligible studies were reviewed and data was extracted on a standard from. We used Cochrane review manager software (Revman version 5.3) to assess the qualities of each included trials. Data were analyzed using an inverse variance method with random effects model effect.

RESULTS

We observed a statistical significant difference between the photobiomodulation therapy compared to non laser group in the acceleration of tooth movement (Mean difference 0.59 (95%CI- 0.24 to 0.95) I² 95%). However, these results need caution while generalizing in clinical practice due to the large amount of heterogeneity across the studies.

CONCLUSION

Findings of the current systematic review suggest a possible benefit with photobiomodulation therapy and tooth movement in orthodontia. However these findings need to be further validated in larger trials using specific standardized characteristics of laser settings to uniform the methodological design that can be used in routine clinical practice.

Periodontically accelerated orthodontic tooth movement: A narrative review

Adult orthodontics has gained widespread acceptance recently with the introduction of more esthetic options for the patient. The major deterrent that remains is the prolonged treatment time associated with comprehensive orthodontic treatment. The objective of this paper is to present a review of techniques, which could be employed by the orthodontist in conjunction with a periodontist to enhance the rate of orthodontic tooth movement. The biological rationale and clinical manipulation have been discussed with a brief review of the current literature about these techniques. The interdisciplinary approach involving the orthodontist and the periodontist can benefit the patient by affording them with reduced treatment time.

Effect of Photobiomodulation on Maxillary Decrowding and Root Resorption: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Purpose

The effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with light-emitting diode (LED) delivery (Biolux OrthoPulse® device) were tested for no differences from sham-controlled conventional orthodontics in maxillary anterior alignment treatment efficiency and maxillary central incisor root resorption after 6 months of treatment.

Materials and Methods

Two prospective clinical trial samples were matched for pretreatment irregularity index with (n = 14) and without (n = 12) photobiomodulation therapy (850 nm wavelength, 0.065 J/cm2, 5 min per-arch-per-day) and examined every 2 weeks for reduction of irregularity index to <1 mm. The sham control sample was provided with LED devices that did not deliver infrared light. Standardized periapical radiographs of maxillary central incisors were compared at initial and 6 months of treatment.

Results

Photobiomodulation resolved maxillary anterior crowding with 35.2% greater efficiency (41.0 vs. 63.3 days, P = 0.028) at nearly double the tooth movement rate-per-week (1.02 vs. 62 mm/week, P = 0.045). Mean maxillary central incisor root lengths were significantly shorter at the 6-month treatment interval after LLLT (19.63 vs. 20.85 mm, P = 0.021).

Conclusions

LED photobiomodulation therapy at 850 nm wavelength resulted in 1.7X more rapid maxillary anterior alignment.

Osseous outgrowth on the buccal maxilla associated with piezosurgery-assisted en-masse retraction: A case series

Piezoelectric surgery is a novel surgical approach used in orthodontic treatment for rapid tooth movement. This paper presents a case series wherein osseous outgrowths were observed in response to piezosurgery-assisted en-masse retraction. Sixteen patients requiring upper premolar extractions were treated with miniscrew-supported en-masse retraction and received minimally invasive decortication via piezosurgery. Computed tomography (CT) of the maxillary anterior region was performed to investigate the nature of the outgrowths. In 8 of the 16 patients, hemispheric or disc-shaped osseous outgrowths were observed on the sites where piezosurgery was performed during retraction. CT images revealed that these outgrowths were alveolar bone. This case series presents a previously unreported osseous response to piezosurgery-assisted tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. The response is mostly transient and is observed in 50% of the treated patients, suggesting a bone turnover that can be assessed clinically and radiographically.

Accelerated orthodontic treatment - what's the evidence?

The demand and accessibility of orthodontic care has increased but has also been accompanied by patient requests for shorter treatment times. Longer orthodontic treatment increases the risk of decalcification, gingival recession, and root resorption and so shorter treatment times have multiple advantages as well as appealing to patient's desires. Numerous techniques and materials have been suggested to reduce treatment times but, in most cases, are based upon selected case reports with no prospective clinical trials to validate claims. The present review examines many of the current options purported to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement and the level of evidence presently available. There is some evidence to suggest that low-level laser therapy and a corticotomy involving the raising of a muco-periosteal flap are associated with accelerated orthodontic tooth movement; however, the current level of evidence is low to moderate in quality. For this reason, further research is required before routine application could be recommended.

Does Low-Level Laser Therapy Enhance the Efficiency of Orthodontic Dental Alignment? Results from a Randomized Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

To assess if low-level laser therapy (LLLT) enhances the efficiency of orthodontic dental alignment.

BACKGROUND

There is no evidence of the effect of LLLT on the orthodontic treatment time from randomized clinical trials.

METHODS

Thirty-six subjects were included in this interventional pilot study and randomly assigned for treatment with fixed appliance and LLLT (test group) or with fixed appliance only (control group). A single monthly administration of LLLT was performed intraorally using a Diode laser (980 nm, 1 W, continuous wave, total energy density = 150 J/cm²; Doctor Smile-Lambda Spa). The date of brackets bonding (T1) and the date of complete resolution of dental crowding (T2) were recorded. The alignment treatment time was defined in days as T2 - T1. The number of monthly scheduled control visits was also recorded. Treatment time duration was assessed in both groups with the log-rank (Mantel-Cox) Test for survival analysis. Mann-Whitney U tests was used to compare the number of control visits from T1 to T2 between the two groups.

RESULTS

Patients' age, sex, and amount of crowding were equally distributed between the two groups. The alignment treatment time was significantly shorter (p < 0.001) in the tested group (211.8 days) compared to the control (284.1 days). Consequently, control visits (p < 0.001) were lower in the test group (7 visits, median value) compared to the control group (9.5 visits, median value).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this pilot study suggest that the administration of LLLT might significantly increase the efficiency of orthodontic treatment during dental alignment.

Low-level laser therapy stimulates bone metabolism and inhibits root resorption during tooth movement in a rodent model

This study evaluated the biological effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on bone remodeling, tooth displacement and root resorption, occurred during the orthodontic tooth movement. Upper first molars of a total of sixty-eight male rats were subjected to orthodontic tooth movement and euthanized on days 3, 6, 9, 14 and 21 days and divided as negative control, control and LLLT group. Tooth displacement and histomorphometric analysis were performed in all animals; scanning electron microscopy analysis was done on days 3, 6 and 9, as well as the immunohistochemistry analysis of RANKL/OPG and TRAP markers. Volumetric changes in alveolar bone were analyzed using MicroCT images on days 14 and 21. LLLT influenced bone resorption by increasing the number of TRAP-positive osteoclasts and the RANKL expression at the compression side. This resulted in less alveolar bone and hyalinization areas on days 6, 9 and 14. LLLT also induced less bone volume and density, facilitating significant acceleration of tooth movement and potential reduction in root resorption besides stimulating bone formation at the tension side by enhancing OPG expression, increasing trabecular thickness and bone volume on day 21. Taken together, our results indicate that LLLT can stimulate bone remodeling reducing root resorption in a rat model. LLLT improves tooth movement via bone formation and bone resorption in a rat model.

Low-level laser therapy effectiveness in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement: A randomized controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement of crowded maxillary incisors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This two-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial involved 26 patients with severe to extreme maxillary incisors irregularity according to Little's irregularity index, indicating two first premolars extraction. Patients were randomly assigned to either the laser group or the control group (13 each). Following premolars extraction, orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances was initiated for both groups. Immediately after insertion of the first archwire, patients in the laser group received a LLL dose from an 830-nm wavelength Ga-Al-As semiconductor laser device with energy of 2 J/point. The laser was applied to each maxillary incisor's root at four points (two buccal, two palatal). Application was repeated on days 3, 7, 14, and then every 15 days starting from the second month until the end of the leveling and alignment stage. Alignment progress was evaluated on the study casts taken before inserting the first archwire (T0), after 1 month of treatment commencement (T1), after 2 months (T2), and at the end of the leveling and alignment stage (T3). The outcome measures were the overall time needed for leveling and alignment and the leveling and alignment improvement percentage.

RESULTS

A statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in the overall treatment time (P < .001) and the leveling and alignment improvement percentage at T1 (P = .004) and T2; (P = .001).

CONCLUSION

LLLT is an effective method for accelerating orthodontic tooth movement.