This study evaluated whether photobiomodulation (PBM), a form of low-level light therapy, can accelerate orthodontic tooth movement during canine distalization in adult patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Eighteen adult patients requiring extraction of maxillary first premolars as part of orthodontic treatment for Class II malocclusion were enrolled. The study used a randomized, controlled, split-mouth design, in which one side of the maxilla was randomly assigned to receive PBM therapy, while the contralateral side served as an untreated control. This design allowed each participant to act as their own control. All patients underwent standard orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances and absolute anchorage provided by orthodontic mini-implants. Canine distalization was performed using nickel-titanium closed-coil springs delivering comparable orthodontic forces on both sides. Photobiomodulation was applied on the experimental side using a 635-nm diode laser according to a predefined schedule over a 45-day period, while no laser treatment was applied on the control side. The primary outcome was the amount of canine tooth movement, measured in millimeters at baseline and at follow-up visits using a calibrated orthodontic caliper. Tooth movement on the laser-treated side was compared with movement on the control side over time. The purpose of this study was to determine whether photobiomodulation could safely and effectively increase the rate of orthodontic tooth movement without additional surgical intervention or pharmacological treatment.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Amount of maxillary canine tooth movement
Timeframe: Baseline (Day 0) to Day 45