Low Level Laser Effects On Pain to Palpation and Electromyographic Activity in TMD Patients: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of diode laser (GaAlAs – 780 nm) on pain to palpation and electromyographic (EMG) activity of the masseter and anterior temporalis muscles. The laser was applied on the temporalis and masseter muscles twice a week (four weeks). Forty-eight (48) patients with myofascial pain were randomly assigned between actual and placebo treatments and between the energetic doses of 25 J/cm² and 60 J/cm², and were evaluated using VAS before, immediately after the final application, and 30 days after the laser treatment. Surface electromyography was performed with maximum dental clenching before and after laser therapy. The results show there were no significant statistical differences in the EMG activity between the groups before and after laser treatment. With regard to the pain at palpation, although both groups presented a significant difference in the symptoms before and after the treatment, only the active doses showed statistically significant reductions in pain level in all the regions of the palpated muscles. However, there was no significant statistical difference between groups (experimental and placebo). In conclusion, low level laser did not promote any changes in EMG activity. The treatment did, however, lessen the pain symptoms in the experimental groups.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Giovana Cherubini Venezian

Dr. Giovana C. Venezian received her D.D.S. degree from the Faculty of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo in 2005. She received her specialty in TMD and orofacial pain from the same university in 2008, and her M.S. degree in 2009 from the same university. Currently, she is a postgraduate student, Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil.

Marco Antônio Moreira Rodrigues da Silva

Dr. Marco Antônio Moreira Rodrigues da Silva received his D.D.S. degree in 1974 and his Ph.D. in Oral Rehabilitation in 1991 from the Faculty of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo. He is a professor at the Department of Restorative Dentistry of the Faculty of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil and is a specialist in TMD and orofacial pain recognized by the Federal Council of Dentistry.

Rafaela Galli Mazzetto

Dr. Rafaela Galli Mazzetto received her D.D.S. degree from the University of Ribeirão Preto in 2007. Currently, she is a dentist in the Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil.

Marcelo Oliveira Mazzetto

Dr. Marcelo Oliveira Mazzetto received his D.D.S. degree in 1980 and his Ph.D. in 1999. He has served as a titular professor at the Faculty of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo, Brazil and is involved in research in temporomandibular disorders.