The Impact of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Tooth Movement in Orthodontic Treatment
Prolonged fixed orthodontic treatments can result in increased damage to tooth roots, gum inflammation, and tooth decay. To minimize the duration of orthodontic treatment, facilitating tooth movement becomes essential. Low-level laser therapy serves as a method to achieve this objective.
Mechanics of Tooth Movement in Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment utilizes the movement of teeth to enhance aesthetics and functionality. When the arch wire applies pressure to the brackets and teeth, the teeth begin to shift. In certain cases, springs or rubber bands are employed to exert additional force in specific directions. Braces consistently apply pressure, gradually guiding the teeth into their proper positions.
Your teeth are surrounded by gum tissue on the upper side. Below the gum tissue lies the periodontal membrane (sometimes referred to as the periodontal ligament or PDL), which covers the lower portion of the tooth, adjacent to the alveolar bone.
As braces exert pressure on your teeth, the periodontal membrane stretches on one side while being compressed on the other. This leads to tooth mobility. Subsequently, the alveolar bone undergoes growth to support the tooth in its new position. Technically, this process is known as bone remodeling.
Methods for Increasing the Speed of Orthodontic Treatment
The lengthy duration of fixed orthodontic treatment, typically lasting around two years, is associated with side effects such as root resorption, gingivitis, and tooth decay. These conditions may deter some individuals from seeking orthodontic treatment altogether.
To address this concern, various methods have been explored to expedite orthodontic treatment and achieve faster tooth movement. Accelerated bone remodeling has been investigated as a means to facilitate quicker tooth movement without causing systemic or local adverse effects on the periodontal tissue.
Researchers have experimented with different techniques to enhance orthodontic tooth movement. Some of these methods include surgical incisions of the cortex surrounding the teeth and the injection of chemicals like topical prostaglandins, vitamin D3, and osteocalcin. These interventions can potentially accelerate tooth movement by altering bone modeling and regeneration. However, it is important to note that most of these methods carry risks and can lead to adverse effects. For instance, prostaglandin E2 injections can be highly painful and may cause root resorption, while repeated injections of vitamin D3 and/or parathyroid hormone may result in unwanted side effects. As a result, a novel method proposed for accelerating orthodontic treatment is the use of low-level laser therapy.
Utilizing Low-Level Laser Therapy for Faster Orthodontics
Studies have indicated that low-level laser therapy radiation can expedite tooth movement and speed up the pace of orthodontic treatment.
Low-level laser therapy has the ability to enhance alveolar bone formation and bone regeneration by influencing the activity of bone cells. This treatment stimulates tooth movement by promoting bone dissolution and formation. Moreover, it boosts metabolism, cell proliferation, and the synthesis of proteins that contribute to tooth movement.
There are several advantages associated with this method compared to other treatment options:
- Non-invasive: It does not cause damage to the surrounding tissue and teeth.
- Reduces inflammation and pain.
- Stimulates collagen production and cell proliferation, which are crucial for tooth movement.
- Lacks the side effects associated with previously mentioned methods.
- Easy to use.
- Cost-effective.
- Does not require expensive equipment.
Overall, low-level laser therapy shows promise as a safe and effective approach to expedite orthodontic treatment without compromising oral health.
