Comparing the effect of low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) in decrowding lower anteriors using conventional and self-ligating MBT bracket systems - An in vivo study

Abstract

Long treatment duration is the main drawback of orthodontic treatment. Biostimulation with low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) is a non invase method of accelerating tooth movement. This study aims to test the efficacy of LILT in decrowding lower anteriors in self-ligating and conventional MBT bracket systems.The study group comprised of 32 subjects between age 14 to 25 and Littles index 4 to 6 allotted to two groups, Group I consist of subjects with conventional MBT brackets and Group II consists of patients with self-ligating brackets. Group I and II are further subdivided into subgroups; Group Ia, Group Ib, Group IIa and Group IIb. Groups Ia and IIa served as test groups undergoing photobiomodulation and groups Ib and IIb served as control. Biostimulation was done using diode laser till lower anterior decrowding is achieved. There is an increase in the rate of decrowding in self-ligating brackets by 20% and conventional brackets by 15.6%. Photobiomodulation with LILT is an effective means of decrowding lower anteriors.