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Low level laser therapy in dentistry

Treatment methods that can reduce pain or stimulate tissue healing are of great interest in dentistry. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a local application of a monochromatic, narrow-band, coherent light source. The action of LLLT is controversial, but one observation is that the laser seems to modulate various metabolic processes in biological tissues by conversion of the laser light energy input into energy useful to cells. It has also been proposed that photodynamic therapy with laser light has an antibacterial effect.

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SBU Enquiry Service

Consists of structured literature searches to highlight studies that can address questions received by the SBU Enquiry Service from Swedish healthcare or social service providers. We assess the risk of bias in systematic reviews and when needed also quality and transferability of results in health economic studies. Relevant references are compiled by an SBU staff member, in consultation with an external expert when needed.

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Question

What evidence is available for the use of low level laser therapy in dentistry to reduce pain or stimulate healing?

Identified literature

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Literature search

Literature search.pdf

Project group

Irene Edebert and Laura Lintamo at SBU.

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