Low-Level Laser Therapy Versus Occlusal Splint for Myofascial Pain Reduction in Chronic TMJ Disorder Patients
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/m4epqn14Keywords:
Jaw Functional Limitation; Low-Level Light Therapy; Myofascial Pain; Occlusal Splints; Photobiomodulation; Temporomandibular DisordersAbstract
Background: Chronic myofascial temporomandibular disorders cause persistent orofacial pain, restricted mandibular movement, and functional limitation. Photobiomodulation may provide a non-invasive alternative to occlusal appliances. Objective: To compare 810 nm diode laser photobiomodulation with custom-fabricated occlusal splint therapy for reducing pain and improving jaw function. Methods: This parallel-group randomized controlled trial enrolled 72 adults with chronic myofascial temporomandibular disorders at a tertiary dental care centre in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. Participants were allocated equally to 12 laser sessions over four weeks or nighttime occlusal splint use. Outcomes were assessed by a blinded examiner at baseline and four weeks. Between-group comparisons, paired tests, repeated-measures analysis of variance, and correlation analysis were performed. Results: Sixty-seven participants completed follow-up: 34 in the laser group and 33 in the splint group. Post-intervention VAS pain scores were lower with laser therapy than with splint therapy (2.6 ± 1.1 versus 3.8 ± 1.4; mean difference −1.2, 95% CI −1.8 to −0.6; p<0.001). Jaw Functional Limitation Scale scores were also lower (16.4 ± 5.2 versus 20.7 ± 6.1; p=0.003). Maximum mouth opening and lateral mandibular movement favoured laser therapy. The VAS time × group interaction was significant (F=12.9; p<0.001). Conclusion: Photobiomodulation produced greater short-term improvements in pain and mandibular function than occlusal splint therapy
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mishka Amanullah, Sabir Ali, Uzma Zareef, Areeba Zubair, Sana M. Ashraf, Arshad Ahmad (Author)
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