The Effects of Light and Vibration on the Correction of Lower Incisor Crowding with Aligners.

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effects of low-frequency vibration (LFV), photobiomodulation (PBM), and their combination (HOT) on the rate of mandibular incisor alignment during clear aligner therapy.

Methods: This retrospective study included 89 patients treated with a single clear aligner system for mild-to-moderate mandibular anterior crowding. Patients were assigned to four groups: control (n=19), LFV (n=26), PBM (n=21), and HOT (n=23). LFV [30 Hz, 0.25 N (≈25 g)] and PBM (850 nm, 16×5 mm LEDs, ≈9.5 J/cm²) devices were used daily for 20 minutes in relevant groups. The primary outcome was the change in Little's Irregularity Index at baseline (T0), 28 days (T1), 48 days (T2), and 62 days (T3). Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA, repeated measures ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation.

Results: The HOT group showed significantly greater crowding reduction compared to all other groups (p<0.05). LFV and PBM alone were not significantly different from the control. Within-group analysis revealed significant reductions in all groups over time, with the HOT group showing consistent improvements at each interval. Correlation analyses revealed no significant associations between device usage or aligner wear time and crowding reduction.

Conclusion: Combining LFV and PBM during clear aligner therapy produced greater short-term acceleration of mandibular incisor alignment than either modality alone. Further randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm long-term efficacy and safety.