The influence of two photobiomodulation protocols on orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (a randomized controlled clinical trial)

Abstract

Background Controversial results have been reported regarding the impact of photobiomodulation (PBM) on orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of two PBM protocols, one of them requiring a high application frequency (on days 0, 3, 7, 14, then every 2 weeks), while the second requires less frequent applications (every 3 weeks), on OIIRR accompanying orthodontic treatment. Methods Twenty female patients were recruited for this randomized controlled trial, requiring the therapeutic extraction of maxillary first premolars, and they were randomly divided into 2 equal groups. In Group A, one side of the maxillary arch randomly received PBM on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and every 2 weeks thereafter, while in Group B, one side was randomly chosen to receive PBM every 3 weeks. The laser applied was a Diode laser with a wavelength of 980 nm, in a continuous mode. Canine retraction in both groups was carried out using closed-coil springs, delivering 150 g of force, and the force level was checked every 3 weeks, over a 12-week study period. Pre-retraction and post-retraction cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was done for the evaluation of OIIRR. Results No significant differences in the amount of OIIRR have been reported between the laser and control sides in both groups A and B. Also, no significant differences have been reported between the laser sides in both groups. Conclusions Photobiomodulation does not affect OIIRR, whether by increasing or decreasing its occurrence, with both laser application protocols. Therefore, it can be stated that PBM does not result in root resorption less than the commonly observed range elicited with conventional orthodontic treatment, and that it has no effect on OIIRR. Trial registration Two Low-level Laser Irradiation Protocols on the Rate of Canine Retraction (NCT04926389), 15/06/2021—retrospectively registered. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04926389.

Investigating the Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser in Reducing Root Resorption of the Upper Incisors During Intrusion Movement Using Mini-Implants in Adult Patients With Deep Overbite: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

“…Low-level laser did not significantly reduce the root resorption resulting from dental movements. This result was similar to many previous studies, which have not shown any effect on OIIRR [14,27,28,30].…”

“…In this context, LLLT has been used recently to improve the mechanisms of orthodontic movement, as many studies have shown that an adequate biological response has occurred in the periodontal ligament with the possibility of reducing the risk of root resorption [12]. In previous studies, laser irradiation has been used with varying wavelengths, energies, exposure times, application sessions, and orthodontic movements [14,[26][27][28]. A diode laser with an 808 nm wavelength was used in this study, which was in the optimal wavelength range and penetrated well into the tissues.…”

The Effects and Mechanisms of PBM Therapy in Accelerating Orthodontic Tooth Movement

“…A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that PBM therapy could reduce root resorption by nearly 23% [137]. However, there are still several studies with negative findings [138,139]. Although the trend of inhibition of root resorption in the PBM therapy group existed, the results did not show statistical difference [139].…”

Challenges in differential diagnosis and treatment of cervical root resorption vs. root caries

“…Laser treatment: different laser wavelengths are capable of removing soft tissue, killing bacteria, achieving haemostasis, promoting healing and reducing post-operative pain and swelling 31…”