A Comparative Study in the Postoperative Outcome of Patients after Third Molar Extraction

Biostimulation with low-energy lasers has been discussed widely and very controversial. Nevertheless, in vitro studies have shown that the use of soft-lasers do have an effect on tissue cultures. Critics bring up the fact, that there are no controlled studies in literature that show, in a clinical setting, more than a placebo effect. Case reports and clinical experience on the other hand show very positive effects. Aim of this study was to evaluated the effect of the low energy laser Ora-Laser 01 I. S. T. on the post operative outcome of patients, who had to undergo third molar surgery. In a randomized clinical setting, 210 patients were assigned to two groups. Every patient underwent surgical removal of one mandibular third molar (with osteotomy). The surgeon was not informed what group the patient belonged to. After suturing the wound the soft laser was applied to every patient. In group I laser radiation was applied by the dental assistant (Ora-Laser 01 I. S. T. ; T-Program), in group II the laser hand piece was only brought into position without releasing energy, so that no patient knew which group he belonged to. The patient was given a pain evaluation sheet where she or he could determine their individual pain level and duration. The evaluation of the results showed a statistically significant shift to lower pain levels in the laser stimulated group. Furthermore the pain duration was shorter.