Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Irradiation in Reducing Pain and Accelerating Socket Healing After Undisturbed Tooth Extraction

This study aimed to determine the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on reducing complications following tooth extraction.

This randomized clinical trial consisted of 40 subjects who underwent lower molar extraction. The patients were randomly assigned to 4 groups. Group 1 was irradiated with a 660 nm laser (200 mW, 30 seconds radiation to lingual, buccal and occlusal surfaces of the socket, 6 J/area). In group 2, an 810 nm laser was applied similar to group 1. In group 3, a combination of 660 and 810 nm lasers was used. The patients in group 4 served as a placebo group. LLLT was performed after 0.5-1 hour of extraction and 2 days later. The participants were asked to record pain degree using a visual analogue scale (VAS) over 7 days. The amount of wound healing was evaluated on the third and seventh days.

There was no significant difference in pain scores among the groups at any of the assessment intervals (P > 0.05). The between-group differences in wound healing scores were small and insignificant (P > 0.05).

LLLT with 660 nm or 810 nm lasers or their combination had no greater effect than the placebo laser for reducing the complications of tooth extraction.