Photobiomodulation in Dentistry
Advanced Dental Laser Therapy for Healing, Pain Relief and Gum Health
At Wayside Dental, we have been using advanced dental laser technology for over 20 years. Robin introduced a diode laser for soft tissue treatment in 2001, followed by the Waterlase laser for hard and soft tissue procedures in 2006.
Originally, the goal was to replace traditional dental tools such as drills and scalpels with something more precise and minimally invasive. Over time, however, we began to see something remarkable — enhanced healing, reduced inflammation and improved patient comfort.
This powerful biological effect is known as Photobiomodulation (PBM).
What is Photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation (PBM) — sometimes referred to as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy — is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate natural healing at a cellular level.
The term breaks down as:
- Photo – light (photons)
- Bio – living cells
- Modulation – altering or regulating cellular processes
When applied during dental treatment, light photons are absorbed by the cell’s mitochondria (often described as the cell’s “battery”). This boosts cellular energy (ATP production), reduces inflammation, improves circulation, and stimulates tissue repair.
In dentistry, PBM is typically delivered using near infra-red laser wavelengths (700–1100nm) at low power. These therapeutic wavelengths are scientifically shown to:
- Reduce pain after dental procedures
- Accelerate wound healing
- Decrease swelling and inflammation
- Support nerve recovery
- Improve soft tissue regeneration
Photobiomodulation is completely non-invasive, painless and drug-free, making it ideal for patients seeking faster healing and improved comfort after dental treatment.
How Does Photobiomodulation Help in Dentistry?
Dental lasers and LED devices are now widely used across modern clinical dentistry. PBM has transformed post-operative recovery and patient experience. At Wayside Dental, we use dental laser therapy to enhance healing and comfort following a variety of procedures.
- Faster Healing After Extractions and Oral Surgery
PBM reduces post-operative pain, swelling and healing time following tooth extractions, wisdom tooth removal and minor oral surgery. - Dental Implant Healing & Stability
Laser photobiomodulation improves implant integration (osseointegration), reduces inflammation and enhances healing around dental implants. This promotes better long-term implant stability and improved patient comfort. - Periodontal (Gum) Treatment
For patients undergoing periodontal therapy or gum disease treatment, PBM helps:- Reduce gum inflammation
- Accelerate soft tissue healing
- Support treatment of peri-implantitis
- Improve overall gum health
- Treatment of Cold Sores, Mouth Ulcers & Lichen Planus
Low level laser therapy is highly effective in treating:- Recurrent cold sores (herpes labialis)
- Aphthous ulcers
- Oral lichen planus
- TMJ & Facial Pain Relief
PBM can be used to relieve:- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) pain
- Jaw tension and muscle pain
- Facial nerve discomfort
- Post-treatment numbness
- Oral Mucositis Treatment
Photobiomodulation has been approved by NICE for the treatment of oral mucositis, a painful condition often caused by cancer therapy. Laser therapy can significantly reduce severity and improve patient comfort.
Photobiomodulation Beyond Dentistry
Photobiomodulation therapy is supported by growing clinical research worldwide. The World Association for Photobiomodulation Therapy (WALT) promotes ongoing research and education in this field.
Outside dentistry, PBM is studied for:
- Muscle and tendon injuries
- Osteoarthritis
- Nerve damage
- Wound healing
- Dermatological conditions
- Macular degeneration (FDA approved application)
This expanding research base highlights the powerful regenerative effects of therapeutic light.
Advanced Gum Health Support with Lumoral
We are proud to offer Lumoral, an innovative home-use light therapy device designed to improve gum health.
Lumoral combines:
- Blue light therapy – kills harmful plaque bacteria not removed by brushing
- Red light therapy – reduces inflammation and promotes healing
- A specialised photodynamic mouthwash
This technology supports patients with:
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
- Bleeding gums
- Poor gum health
Poor oral health has been strongly linked to cardiovascular disease, making gum care essential for overall health.
Using Lumoral just twice per week can significantly reduce harmful plaque bacteria and support long-term periodontal health.
Why Choose Laser Dentistry at Wayside Dental?
Patients increasingly search for:
- “Laser dentist near me”
- “Pain free dental treatment”
- “Laser gum treatment”
- “Faster healing after dental implant”
- “TMJ laser therapy”
At Wayside Dental, we combine over 20 years of laser experience with modern photobiomodulation techniques to provide:
- Minimally invasive dental treatment
- Reduced post-operative discomfort
- Faster healing times
- Improved clinical outcomes
- Greater patient comfort
Book a Consultation
If you would like to learn more about photobiomodulation in dentistry or how dental laser therapy could benefit your treatment, speak to your dentist at your next appointment or contact Wayside Dental to arrange a consultation.
Experience the future of healing-focused dentistry today.
