The efficacy of low-level laser therapy versus paracetamol-caffeine in controlling orthodontic separation pain and changes in the oral-health-related quality of life in Class I malocclusions: A 3-arm, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Abstract
BACKGROUND
This study evaluated the analgesic effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and paracetamol-caffeine in controlling orthodontic pain induced by elastomeric separators, as well as changes in oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL).
METHODS
A total of 54 patients (22 male, 32 female; mean age [standard deviation]: 21.68 [±2.77]) participated in the study. Elastomeric separators were placed mesially and distally to the first molars in the upper and lower dental arches. The first group (n = 18) received a single dose of aluminum gallium arsenide (GaAlAs) laser irradiation (808 nm; 350 milliwatts; 3.5 joule/point) with a placebo medication. The laser beam was applied buccally and lingually at the center of the first molar roots and the adjacent teeth (2nd molar and 2nd premolar) in both the upper and lower dental arches bilaterally. The second group (n = 18) received paracetamol-caffeine tablets (3 times daily for the first couple of days after separator insertion, and as needed for the rest of the week), with a placebo light-emitting diode (LED) light; patients in the third group (n = 18) were exposed to the 2 placebo procedures. An 11-point numeric rating scale was used to assess spontaneous and chewing pain perception immediately and at 1 hour, 24 hour, 48 hours, and 1 week after separator placement. The short version of the oral health impact profile (OHIP-14) was used to evaluate OHRQoL at 48 hours and at 1 week after separator placement.
RESULTS
Pain…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 54 participants or records.
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