Low-level laser therapy after molar extraction.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to evaluate effect of the different frequencies of low-level laser radiation (diode 670 nm and Helium-Neon 632.8 nm) on the healing process after human molar extractions. Frequencies of 5 Hz, 292 Hz, and 9,000 Hz were used in experiments. Monitoring of secretory IgA and albumin level in saliva and changes in bone density were used as objective markers of biostimulatory effect.


BACKGROUND
From the literature, it is known that if the alveolus is irradiated after extraction along with the lingual and buccal bony wall, faster coagulation, less postoperative discomfort, and quicker healing can be expected.


METHODS
Subjective evaluation of therapy was observed using a scale (from -, negative therapeutic effect, to ++++, excellent treatment effect). Changes of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), albumin levels, and bone density were compared in a group of 150 patients (nonlaser therapy, 30 patients).


RESULTS
Differences in levels of the saliva markers (sIgA and albumin) were found to be significant when comparing irradiated and nonirradiated groups, and in comparison with those groups irradiated by various modulatory frequencies. Significant differences were observed between the increase of sIgA res. albumin and subjective feelings during treatment. Bone density after extraction and 6 months after surgical treatment was examined using dental digital radiovisiography. No significant differences were detected between bone density in irradiated and nonirradiated groups, perhaps due to our therapy protocol.


CONCLUSIONS
The low-level laser has no influence on the process of osseointegration. This effect was observed on fracture healing in rats using He-Ne laser radiation. We found no differences in the bone density when compared to the control group.
Kucerová
H
H
Institute of Dental Research, General Faculty Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic.
Dostálová
T
T
Himmlova
L
L
Bártová
J
J
Mazánek
J
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000418:Albumins / Q000032:analysis; D015519:Bone Density / Q000528:radiation effects; D006801:Humans; D007071:Immunoglobulin A, Secretory / Q000032:analysis; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D008963:Molar / Q000601:surgery*; D011184:Postoperative Period; D012463:Saliva / Q000737:chemistry; D014081:Tooth Extraction; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000528:radiation effects*
D000418:Albumins; D007071:Immunoglobulin A, Secretory