Photobiomodulation in the Management of Oral Lesions: Current Evidence, Clinical Applications, and Future Perspectives

Background: Oral lesions, including inflammatory, traumatic and autoimmune in origin are usually associated with pain, impaired oral function, delayed healing, and diminished quality of life. Conventional therapies are often associated with prolonged duration, adverse effects, and lack of complete symptom resolution. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has emerged as a promising, non-invasive therapeutic modality that alleviates pain and inflammation, modulates the immune response, and promotes wound healing and tissue regeneration.

Objective: To describe the current evidence, biological basis, and application of Laser PBM in treating oral lesions and its potential impact in routine dental practice as per the latest recommendations by ADA.

Methods: A series of clinical cases will be presented where a variety of oral lesions and their management would be discussed in detail. Current evidence regarding treatment protocols, clinical outcomes, and safety will be highlighted in this presentation including the dosimetry and mechanism of action.

Results: Current evidence supports the effectiveness of laser PBM in reducing pain, accelerating wound healing, and improving patient comfort in conditions such as recurrent aphthous stomatitis, oral mucositis, oral lichen planus, burning mouth syndrome, and post-surgical wounds. The therapeutic effects are mediated through enhanced mitochondrial activity, increased ATP synthesis, modulation of inflammatory cytokines, and stimulation of angiogenesis and tissue regeneration. Clinical outcomes are influenced by appropriate laser dosimetry, including wavelength, energy density, power output, type of delivery system and treatment time.

Conclusion: Photobiomodulation represents a safe, effective, and minimally invasive adjunct in the management of oral lesions. With an expanding body of high-quality evidence supporting its clinical benefits, PBM is increasingly being integrated into evidence-based dental practice. Standardized treatment protocols and further multicentric clinical trials are warranted to optimize therapeutic outcomes and facilitate wider clinical adoption