Background: Surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars often leads to pain, swelling, and functional limitations. While conventional treatments offer relief, they come with side effects. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has emerged as a potential non-invasive alternative.
Aim: To evaluate the role of LLLT in reducing postoperative inflammation, pain, and complications following mandibular third molar surgery.
Materials and Methods: A split-mouth prospective case-control study was conducted on 30 patients with bilateral impacted mandibular third molars. One side was treated with LLLT using a 980 nm diode laser, while the contralateral side served as control. Pain (VAS), swelling, mouth opening, masticatory load, analgesic use, bone healing, and complications were assessed at multiple intervals postoperatively.
Results: The laser group demonstrated significantly lower pain and swelling at 24 hours, 7 days, and 1 month postoperatively (p < 0>
Conclusion: LLLT effectively reduces postoperative discomfort and promotes faster healing following third molar surgery.
Keywords: Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), Mandibular Third Molar, Postoperative Pain, Laser in Oral Surgery, Split-Mouth Study
