In the ever-evolving field of orthodontics, where the pursuit of a perfect smile meets the science of dental alignment, a revolutionary treatment has emerged, captivating the attention of both patients and dental professionals alike—phototherapy. This innovative approach, which harnesses the power of light, is not only reshaping the way orthodontic treatments are conducted but also offering new hope for patients seeking a more efficient and comfortable orthodontic experience. In this article, we will delve into the world of phototherapy in orthodontics, exploring what it is, how it works, and the conditions it can treat, all based on the latest research findings from esteemed academic journals.
What is Phototherapy in Orthodontics?
Phototherapy, also known as photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level light energy to stimulate biological processes within the body. In the context of orthodontics, PBMT involves the application of specific wavelengths of light, typically in the red and near-infrared spectrum, to the oral cavity to enhance the process of tooth movement and improve the overall outcome of orthodontic treatment.
The concept of PBMT is based on the principle that light energy can be absorbed by cells, particularly mitochondria—the powerhouses of cells—and converted into chemical energy. This energy conversion triggers a series of biochemical reactions that promote cellular metabolism, reduce inflammation, and stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. When applied to orthodontics, PBMT aims to accelerate the remodeling of the alveolar bone—the bone that supports the teeth—by enhancing the activity of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) and osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells), thus facilitating faster and more efficient tooth movement.
How Does Phototherapy Work in Orthodontic Treatment?
The process of phototherapy in orthodontics begins with a comprehensive assessment of the patient's oral condition and orthodontic needs by a qualified orthodontist. Once the treatment plan is determined, the patient will undergo regular sessions of PBMT, typically administered using a handheld device or a custom-made mouthpiece that emits the appropriate light wavelengths.
During a PBMT session, the light source is positioned near the teeth and gums, and the light energy is directed onto the treatment area for a specific period, usually ranging from a few minutes to several minutes per session. The number of sessions and the treatment duration will vary depending on the patient's individual needs and the complexity of the orthodontic case.
According to the research by Yong J et al. (2023), PBMT works by influencing the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in bone remodeling. The light energy stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the cells, which in turn activates signaling pathways that regulate the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. This leads to an increased rate of bone resorption in the areas where the teeth need to move and enhanced bone formation in the new positions, ultimately facilitating faster and more efficient tooth movement.
In addition to its effects on bone remodeling, PBMT also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with orthodontic treatment. Zheng J and Yang K (2021) conducted a clinical study on the use of low-level laser therapy (a form of PBMT) in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement and found that patients who received the treatment reported significantly less pain and discomfort compared to those who did not. This is because the light energy can reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines and promote the release of endorphins—the body's natural painkillers—providing a more comfortable orthodontic experience for patients.
What Conditions Can Phototherapy Treat in Orthodontics?
Phototherapy has shown great promise in treating a variety of orthodontic conditions, offering several advantages over traditional treatment methods. Here are some of the key applications of PBMT in orthodontics:
1. Accelerating Tooth Movement
One of the primary benefits of PBMT in orthodontics is its ability to accelerate tooth movement. Traditional orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, can take anywhere from several months to several years to complete, depending on the severity of the misalignment. However, studies have shown that the use of PBMT can significantly reduce treatment time.
Yong J et al. (2023) reviewed multiple studies on PBMT-assisted orthodontic tooth movement and concluded that, on average, PBMT can accelerate tooth movement by up to 25 - 30%. This means that patients may be able to achieve their desired smile in a shorter period, reducing the overall treatment duration and improving patient compliance.
2. Reducing Pain and Discomfort
As mentioned earlier, orthodontic treatment can often cause pain and discomfort, especially during the initial stages when the teeth are being adjusted. PBMT can help alleviate this pain by reducing inflammation and promoting the release of endorphins. Zheng J and Yang K (2021) reported that patients who received low-level laser therapy during orthodontic treatment experienced less pain and discomfort, which led to better treatment compliance and a more positive patient experience.
3. Improving Bone Remodeling and Stability
Proper bone remodeling is crucial for successful orthodontic treatment. PBMT can enhance the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, ensuring that the bone adapts well to the movement of the teeth. This not only facilitates faster tooth movement but also improves the long-term stability of the teeth after orthodontic treatment. Sant'Anna EF et al. (2017) studied the application of high-intensity laser in orthodontics and found that it can have a positive impact on bone remodeling, leading to better treatment outcomes.
4. Treating Orthodontic-Related Soft Tissue Issues
In addition to its effects on bone and teeth, PBMT can also be used to treat soft tissue issues associated with orthodontic treatment, such as gum inflammation and ulcers. The anti-inflammatory properties of PBMT can help reduce swelling and promote tissue repair, ensuring the health of the gums and other soft tissues in the oral cavity.
Challenges and Future Perspectives
While phototherapy in orthodontics shows great potential, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. According to Yong J et al. (2023), one of the main challenges is the lack of standardization in treatment protocols. Different studies have used different light wavelengths, intensities, and treatment durations, making it difficult to compare results and establish optimal treatment parameters.
Another challenge is the cost of the equipment and treatment. PBMT devices can be expensive, which may limit their accessibility to some patients. However, as the technology continues to evolve and become more widespread, it is expected that the cost will decrease over time.
Looking to the future, researchers are exploring new ways to optimize the use of PBMT in orthodontics. Bahrami R et al. (2025) conducted a literature review on the effect of light-emitting diode-mediated PBMT on orthodontic tooth movement and suggested that future studies should focus on developing more personalized treatment protocols based on individual patient characteristics, such as age, bone density, and genetic factors. Additionally, the integration of PBMT with other emerging orthodontic technologies, such as 3D printing and digital imaging, may further enhance its effectiveness and application in orthodontic treatment.
In conclusion, phototherapy is a promising and innovative treatment option in the field of orthodontics. By harnessing the power of light, PBMT offers several benefits, including accelerated tooth movement, reduced pain and discomfort, improved bone remodeling, and the treatment of soft tissue issues. While there are still challenges to overcome, the future of phototherapy in orthodontics looks bright, with the potential to revolutionize the way orthodontic treatments are conducted and provide patients with a more efficient, comfortable, and successful orthodontic experience.
References:
Yong J, Gröger S, VON Bremen J, Martins Marques M, Braun A, Chen X, Ruf S, Chen Q. Photobiomodulation therapy assisted orthodontic tooth movement: potential implications, challenges, and new perspectives. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B. 2023 Sep 27;24(11):957 - 973. doi: 10.1631/jzus.B2200706. PMID: 37961799; PMCID: PMC10646401.
Zheng J, Yang K. Clinical research: low-level laser therapy in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement. BMC Oral Health. 2021 Jun 28;21(1):324. doi: 10.1186/s12903-021-01684-z. PMID: 34182967; PMCID: PMC8237464.
Sant'Anna EF, Araújo MTS, Nojima LI, Cunha ACD, Silveira BLD, Marquezan M. High-intensity laser application in Orthodontics. Dental Press J Orthod. 2017 Nov-Dec;22(6):99 - 109. doi: 10.1590/2177-6709.22.6.099-109.sar. PMID: 29364385; PMCID: PMC5784822.
Bahrami R, Nikparto N, Gharibpour F, Pourhajibagher M, Bahador A. The effect of light-emitting diode-mediated photobiomodulation therapy on orthodontic tooth movement: A literature review. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther. 2025 Apr;52:104488. doi: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2025.104488. Epub 2025 Jan 16. PMID: 39826598.
