The local anaesthetic effect of a dental laser prior to cavity preparation: a pilot volunteer study

Effectiveness of photobiomodulation in reducing pain and producing dental analgesia: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is reported in many studies to produce dental analgesia without producing thermal damage to tissues. This systematic review aims to assess in vivo studies to support the statement that PBM can produce dental analgesia.

METHOD

A systematic search strategy was constructed, and PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases were searched. Subsequently, inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, reference lists were scanned, and hand searched to identify other suitable studies.

RESULTS

Five studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis was not undertaken due to the heterogenous nature of the studies and data. Positive analgesia outcome was obtained in four out of five studies, and one study with no significant results was criticized for poor reporting of laser parameters, small sample size (six).

CONCLUSION

In general, all studies were criticized for poor discussion of all covariates that could have modified the results, consequently resulting in poor quality of evidence, moderate risk of bias, and poor internal validity, as well as external validity. The systematic review also discussed the potential implications of all variables to be considered for future trials, including pulsing mode, contact modes, and tooth characteristics.

[Application of minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry in the clinics of pediatric dentistry]

With the minimally invasive treatment attracting considerable attention in the field of dentistry, a series of oral minimally invasive treatment technologies, including minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry (MICD) technology, is emerging. Children, as a special group of patients, are in the critical stage of the initial formation of psychological structure. Therefore, children's dental treatment should not be limited to restoring function and relieving pain. The development, aesthetics, and physical and mental health should also be given attention. Therefore, in recent years, MICD technology has been widely used in diagnosis and treatment of pediatric dentistry. This review provides a detailed introduction regarding a series of techniques in pediatric dentistry.