Aim: This research aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a preoperative Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) protocol in managing pain, edema, and trismus related to the surgical removal of impacted lower wisdom teeth.
Methodology: Thirty participants were included into this investigation and then randomized into three groups. The control group included patients managed by routine surgical treatment. Other patients were allocated into the laser groups were group 1 included patients receiving LLLT immediately post-surgery. Group 2 included patients who received LLLT pre- and post-surgical removal of the impacted wisdom. Pain, trismus, and facial edema were evaluated immediately after the surgery, as well as on the second and seventh days following the procedure.
Results: The percentage of decrease in pain was greatest in group 2, followed by group 1, and lowest in control group. Pre-operatively to 7th day facial swelling percentage change indicated that the control group had the greatest increase, followed by group 1 and group 2 with the lowest increase. The percentage change in mouth opening from pre-operatively to 7th day indicated that control group had the biggest decrease, followed by group 1 and group 2.
Conclusion: It appears that the pain-relieving effect of LLLT is enhanced by a preoperative irradiation immediately prior to the extraction. A preoperative dose of LLLT also appears to be beneficial in reducing trismus and facial swelling when compared to a single postoperative dose