Photobiomodulation as an Adjunctive Therapy for Oral Trauma: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Photobiomodulation has been reported to accelerate healing of tissues, promote the formation of new blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and manage pain, which can be highly beneficial when treating trauma patients. There is a lack of controlled clinical studies on the use of PBM for dental trauma, likely due to challenges in standardizing the types of trauma for inclusion and treatment, as well as the complexities introduced by the urgent nature of emergency care in clinical practice. Aim: In light of this challenge, the objective of this case report was to evaluate the effects of PBM in tissue damage resulting from a 7-years-old girl trauma due to a fall incident causing a lip injury (contusion and laceration) and a nasal spine bone fracture. Methods: the PBM with a Diode Laser was used aa an adjuvant with a detailed medication regimen. Red light (660 nm, 3J) was applied for 30 seconds at four points on the upper lip, while infrared light (808 nm, 3J) was applied for 30 seconds at two points near tooth 11 and the nasal spine to cover the affected area. It was performed 5 sessions (initial session at Day 1 of trauma, at 24 hours, 48 hours, one week and three weeks). The upper lip and nasal spine regions were submitted to PBM. Results: Complete absorption of the lip hematoma and healing of mucosal abrasion occurred within a few days. The patient remained pain-free throughout the initial week and thereafter, with no pain medication. The radiographic and clinical assessment indicated no dental damage occurred. Follow-up was for seven months, and no subsequent complications were observed. Conclusion: In this case report, PBM was used as an adjunctive treatment for orofacial trauma, demonstrating potential benefits in reducing pain and tissue inflammation. However, further well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and establish standardized protocols.