To Analyze the Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy and Sham Laser in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder

BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a collective term, characterized by symptoms involving muscles of mastication, Temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and orofascial structures resulting from a dysfuntion of the somatogenic system. LLLT Low Level Laser Therapy is a photo bio- stimulation which involves the use of visible red and near infra red light to stimulate and improve healing as well as reduce pain. The aim of this study is to find out the efficacy of LLLT in patients with TMD and also to find out the efficacy of sham laser therapy in patients with TMD. METHODOLOGY: Thirty patients from OPD of Nanded Rural Dental college and research centre were included in the study based on the selection criteria. They were randomly divided into group A (treated with LLLT) and group B (treated Sham laser therapy). The parameters selected were the wavelength of 632.8 nm, maximum output of 1 Mw with energy density 1.3J/cm2. VAS and AROM of TMJ were used as outcomes measure taken before and after the end of 2 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: There was statistically significant difference in VAS, mouth opening and mandibular protrusion and retrusion between LLLT and sham laser therapy groups post treatment. CONCLUSION: LLLT is a better treatment module for patients with TMD