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Salivary Cortisol Levels and Burning Symptoms in Patients with Burning Mouth Syndrome before and after Low Level Laser Therapy: a Double Blind Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial

Ivana Škrinjar, Božana Lončar Brzak, V. Vidranski, Vanja Vucicevic Boras, A. Rogulj, B. Pavelić

Acta Stomatologica Croatica, 2020

12 participants · 22 citations

Abstract

Objectives Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a disorder which is described as burning sensation of the oral mucosa without pathological changes. Most of the patients have some underlying stressful conditions. Stress induces an increase in secretion of different endocrine glands resulting in higher levels of glucocorticoids. One of the options for treatment of BMS includes low level laser therapy (LLLT). The aim of this research was to determine salivary cortisol levels and intensity of burning symptoms in BMS patients before and after LLLT. Materials and Methods Twenty-three participants were allocated by randomization in two groups: 12 patients in the study group and 11 patients in the placebo group. Cortisol levels in all patients were analyzed from the sample of saliva collected without stimulation. In both groups, the LLLT was performed once a day for ten consecutive days (excluding weekend) with Ga-Al-As light-emitting diode type of laser, with a wavelength of 685nm. In the control group, LLLT was done with inactive laser probe which was only emitting audio signal. The intensity of burning symptoms was measured by a visual analogue scale (VAS). The VAS and unstimulated saliva were measured at baseline and on the last day of the LLLT. A quantitative analysis of saliva was performed using competitive commercial ELISA-kit. Results VAS scores and salivary cortisol levels were significantly lower in both groups after LLLT. Conclusions LLLT can be useful in patients with BMS…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 12 participants or records.

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