Effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on post-operative pain, trismus and quality of life (QOL) of patients undergoing extraction of impacted lower third molars

Abstract

Low-level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a physical modality used to support rehabilitation therapy. Often, patients undergoing extraction of impacted lower third molars experience a decline in their quality of life (QOL). This single-blinded randomised controlled trial (RCT) included patients aged between 18 to 30 years who were randomly allocated to an intervention group that received LLLT (n = 21) or a control group that did not (n = 21). Subjects in the intervention group was given a dose 54 J, energy density 18J/cm2 at 0, 3rd and 7th day post lower third molar removal. The QOL was assessed in both groups using the Short Form 36 (SF-36) before and after LLLT. A statistically significant reduction in pain was observed on post-operative days 3 and 7 (p < 0.05) between both groups. There is a statistically significant reduction of post-operative trismus at day 3 and 7 (p < 0.05) between both groups. A statistically significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the physical role (RP), bodily pain and general health domains of QOL was seen in both groups. Additionally, a significant improvement (p < 0.05) was observed in the physical component of QOL in both groups. The results of this study showed that LLLT (905 nm 18J/cm2 osis, 100 mW power) therapy can decrease post-operative pain and reduce trismus from day 3 in patients that have undergone surgical treatment of impacted lower third molars.