The use of low-level lasers in the treatment of oral lichen planus (OLP) – a review of the literature

Abstract

A laser is a device that emits radiation in the visible light, ultraviolet or infrared range, using the phenomenon of forced emission. The name is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The main characteristics of a laser beam include: monochromaticity, coherence, parallelism and intensity. By power, we can divide lasers into 2 groups: high-energy (hard) lasers with emission power above 1 W and low-energy (<1 W) lasers. Lasers are used in medicine, industry, military technology, telecommunications, surveying and construction, among other fields. Lichen planus is a chronic disease of the mucous membranes and skin with a fairly common occurrence, characteristic clinical picture and unclear etiology. The therapy of lichen planus of the mucous membranes, especially its oral form (OLP), is still a major problem despite continuous medical advances. To date, a fully effective treatment regimen has not been developed. Current methods are mainly based on pharmacotherapy. With advances in technology, the search for alternative forms of treatment has begun. In recent years, an increasing number of reports have suggested the validity of using Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to treat oral lichen planus. The use of this treatment may reduce the incidence of side effects observed with traditional corticosteroid (CS) therapy, sulfones or immunosuppressants.