The efficacy of photobiomodulation in the management of gingivitis during orthodontic treatment: A systematic review of clinical studies

ABSTRACT Purpose The objective of the current study was to assess the effectiveness of photobiomodulation in managing gingival inflammation in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods The addressed focus question was ‘Is photobiomodulation effective in treating gingival inflammation in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment?’ Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) model, indexed databases were searched up to and including January 2021. The risk of bias (ROB) was assessed using Joanna Briggs critical appraisal tool. Results Eight studies which included, six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and two clinical trials were included in the review. All the studies reported that PBM can be used in the management of gingival inflammation during or after the orthodontic treatment, but two studies reported that there is no difference between lasers and conventional scalpel therapy. Overall, the risk of bias was low for six studies and moderate for two studies. Conclusion The efficacy of photobiomodulation in the management of gingival enlargement during orthodontic treatment is debatable as the heterogeneity associated with the included studies is high. Overall, majority of the studies are supportive and the conclusion of the present review indicates that photobiomodulation can be used as an adjunct tool for managing gingivitis during orthodontic treatment. Further, well-designed RCTs are needed.