Pain reduced by low-level laser therapy during use of orthodontic separators in early mixed dentition.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this work was to investigate whether low-level laser therapy (LLLT) applied at a defined distance from the gingiva has a pain-reducing effect in young patients undergoing orthodontic separation during the early mixed-dentition stage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 40 children in early mixed dentition (mean age 8.05 years) who required separation of molars were included. The study comprised a group of 20 patients whose treatment included laser application on the day of separation and a control group of 20 patients not receiving LLLT. All patients recorded their maximum pain intensities on the day of separation (day 1) and on the following 4 days. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, pain perception was significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in the LLLT group on day 1 and continued to be reduced on day 2. Equivalent pain levels were recorded in both groups on days 3-5. CONCLUSION: Given our findings of a pain-reducing effect in young patients undergoing orthodontic separation during the early mixed-dentition stage, LLLT is an interesting alternative option of providing analgesia even in very young patients.