Comparative evaluation of low level laser therapy in post endodontic pain management - A quasi experimental trial

Abstract

Introduction: Low level lasers have an average output power range between 5 and 500 mW. Low level lasers have shown nonthermal, and bio-stimulatory effects. The most common complication of single visit endodontics is a flare-up that results in pain and swelling. Aim:The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate the effect of Low Level Laser Therapy in pain management after single visit endodontic treatment pain. Materials and methods: Thirty subjects with symptomatic apical periodontitis in their lower premolars were divided randomly into 3 groups. Group A was administered Low level Laser for 5 minutes prior to the procedure at the apex of the tooth through buccal mucosa and into the canal after pulp space preparation. Group B was given 600 milligrams of ibuprofen half an hour prior to the start of the treatment and given Low level Laser just prior to the treatment and into the canal after the completion of pulp space preparation. Group C was kept as a control group which was neither given analgesics nor laser preoperatively.Intensity of pain after treatment was noted down on a visual analog scale at four hour, eight hour,twelve hour and twenty four hour interval. Results: Results were obtained after statistical analysis. Conclusion: LLLT group showed less pain levels than the control group after single visit endodontics.