Photobiomodulation Therapy

Photobiomodulation is a noninvasive therapy that delivers low-intensity light to targeted tissue. It is sometimes called PBM or low-level light therapy. It differs from surgical laser treatment because its goal is not to cut or remove tissue. Instead, light is delivered at therapeutic settings selected for the intended application.

Photobiomodulation is not the same as using a surgical laser to cut, remove, or reshape tissue. PBM uses lower-intensity light for a therapeutic effect without making an incision. Your dentist can explain exactly what type of light-based therapy is being recommended, why it's being used, and what you should expect during your treatment.

Photobiomodulation is generally considered a noninvasive and painless form of therapy. Published dental literature has highlighted those characteristics as reasons for interest in PBM. You typically won't experience the cutting or tissue removal associated with a more invasive procedure.

The length of a photobiomodulation session depends on the area being treated, the device being used, and the clinical goal. There is no single treatment time that applies to every dental use of PBM. Light wavelength, energy settings, exposure time, and treatment frequency can all differ among protocols.

The number of sessions depends on why your dentist recommends photobiomodulation and how the treatment is being incorporated into your dental care. PBM does not have one standardized schedule that applies to every oral condition. Your dentist can explain the expected frequency based on your procedure and treatment goals.

Photobiomodulation generally serves as supportive therapy and should not be viewed as a substitute for necessary dental treatment. If you have decay, gum disease, an infection, damaged teeth, or another oral health problem, your dentist must first diagnose and address the underlying condition appropriately. PBM may be incorporated when there is a suitable clinical reason.

Photobiomodulation is a noninvasive, light-based therapy, so the experience is typically very different from having a tooth drilled or soft tissue surgically treated. The device is directed toward the target area for a set period. You may notice little sensation from the light itself.

Your dentist can determine whether photobiomodulation makes sense after evaluating your oral health, planned procedure, and treatment goals. PBM is not automatically appropriate for every dental condition. A consultation also gives you an opportunity to understand what the therapy can and cannot do.