Cold Laser Therapy for Dentistry
How leading dental practices are using photobiomodulation to support pain modulation and differentiate their patient experience.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, commonly called cold laser or low-level laser therapy, is rapidly gaining adoption in dentistry. Unlike surgical lasers that cut tissue, cold lasers work at the cellular level to reduce inflammation and provide immediate pain relief.
For dental practices, this means happier patients, fewer post-op complications, and a powerful differentiator in a competitive market.
Dental Applications
Cold laser therapy addresses a wide range of conditions seen daily in dental practice.
TMJ / TMD Disorders
One of the most impactful applications. Cold laser therapy reduces inflammation in the temporomandibular joint, relaxes associated musculature, and provides significant pain relief, often within the first treatment.
Post-Extraction Recovery
Applied immediately after extraction and in follow-up visits, PBM dramatically reduces swelling, pain, and incidences of dry socket. Patients report significantly less discomfort and faster return to normal function.
Implant Surgery Recovery
PBM enhances osseointegration around implants. Treatment before, during, and after implant placement reduces complications and accelerates the timeline to restoration.
Periodontal Therapy
Used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing, cold laser reduces pocket depth, decreases inflammation, and promotes tissue regeneration. Particularly effective for patients with chronic periodontal disease.
Mucositis & Oral Ulcers
Highly effective for aphthous ulcers (canker sores), herpetic lesions, and chemotherapy-induced mucositis. Often provides immediate pain relief and supports recovery following treatment.
Dentin Hypersensitivity
Cold laser treatment can provide lasting relief from tooth sensitivity by stimulating tertiary dentin formation and reducing pulpal inflammation. Often effective when desensitizing toothpastes have failed.
Nerve Injuries & Paresthesia
For patients experiencing numbness or altered sensation after extractions or implant placement (inferior alveolar nerve injury), PBM can accelerate nerve regeneration and recovery of sensation.
Orthodontic Pain
Reduces discomfort from braces adjustments and may accelerate tooth movement. Growing evidence suggests PBM can shorten overall treatment time while improving patient comfort.
How Photobiomodulation Works
Light Absorption
Specific wavelengths (typically 600-1000nm) penetrate tissue and are absorbed by chromophores in the mitochondria, primarily by cytochrome c oxidase.
Cellular Response
This triggers increased ATP production, modulation of reactive oxygen species, and release of nitric oxide, thereby enhancing cellular metabolism and function.
Tissue Effects
The cascade results in reduced inflammation, increased microcirculation, accelerated tissue repair, and modulation of pain signaling pathways.
Clinical Outcomes
Patients experience less pain, reduced swelling, and better overall outcomes with no known side effects.
Key Point: Unlike surgical lasers that use thermal energy to cut or ablate tissue, cold lasers work through photochemical reactions at power levels that produce no heat. The effects are cumulative—each treatment builds on the last.
Benefits for Your Practice
Happier Patients
Patients experience less pain and faster recovery. This translates to better reviews, more referrals, and higher case acceptance for elective procedures.
New Revenue Stream
TMJ therapy, post-op care packages, and standalone treatments create billable services. Many practices see full ROI within 3-6 months.
Reduced Chair Time
Optimizing post-operative recovery may help reduce complications and follow-up visits. Patients recover more predictably, keeping your schedule on track.
Practice Differentiation
Most dental practices don't offer PBM therapy yet. Being an early adopter positions you as innovative and patient-focused in your market.
Staff Can Administer
With proper training, hygienists and dental assistants can perform most PBM treatments, freeing doctor time for procedures requiring their expertise.
Zero Side Effects
When used properly, cold laser therapy has no known adverse effects. No drugs, no recovery time, no contraindications for most patients.
TMJ/TMD: A Practice Builder
TMJ disorders affect 10-15% of adults, yet most dental practices don't actively treat them. Cold laser therapy makes TMJ treatment accessible, effective, and profitable.
The Opportunity
- Millions of patients suffering with limited treatment options
- Many have tried night guards, medications, physical therapy without relief
- Patients are motivated because TMJ pain significantly impacts quality of life
- Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful (patients talk about what finally worked)
Treatment Protocol
- Initial Phase: 2-3 sessions per week for 2-4 weeks
- Treatment Areas: TMJ capsule, masseter, temporalis, lateral pterygoid, cervical muscles
- Session Time: 10-15 minutes
- Maintenance: Monthly or as needed
Expected Results
- 50-80% reduction in pain within first few sessions
- Improved range of motion (mouth opening)
- Decreased muscle tension and spasm
- Reduced clicking/popping (in some cases)
- Better sleep due to reduced clenching discomfort
Practice Economics
- Treatment fee: $75-150 per session typical
- Package pricing: $500-1,200 for initial series
- High patient retention for maintenance
- Strong referral generation
- Can be delegated to trained staff
The Evidence Base
Photobiomodulation in dentistry is supported by a substantial and growing body of peer-reviewed research. Here's a sampling of the evidence:
"PBM therapy significantly reduced pain and improved mandibular function in patients with TMD. Effects were maintained at 30-day follow-up."
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 2019"Patients receiving LLLT after third molar extraction showed significantly less pain, swelling, and trismus compared to control groups."
Lasers in Medical Science, 2020"PBM is recommended for the prevention of oral mucositis in patients receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy."
Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) Guidelines"LLLT application improved implant stability and accelerated osseointegration during the early healing period."
Clinical Oral Implants Research, 2018"Adjunctive PBM with scaling and root planing resulted in greater reduction in pocket depth and clinical attachment gain."
Journal of Periodontology, 2021For comprehensive research access, visit our Research Library with over 6,000 indexed studies on photobiomodulation.
Choosing Equipment for Dental Practice
Not all cold lasers are equally suited for dental applications. Here's what to consider:
Wavelength
Look for systems offering wavelengths in the therapeutic window:
- 630-670nm (red): Excellent for surface tissues, mucosa, gingiva
- 800-860nm (near-infrared): Deeper penetration for TMJ, muscle, bone
- 905nm (superpulsed): Deep tissue without thermal buildup
Ideal: Systems with multiple wavelengths for versatility
Power Output
Higher power means shorter treatment times:
- Class 3B (up to 500mW): Professional standard, no thermal concerns
- Class 4 (500mW+): Fastest treatments, requires more safety protocols
For dental: 100-500mW is typically sufficient given small treatment areas
Probe Design
Dental applications benefit from:
- Small probe tips: For intraoral use and precise targeting
- Angled probes: Easier access to posterior areas
- Cluster probes: Faster coverage for TMJ and extraoral muscles
Consider systems with interchangeable probe options
Ease of Use
Practical considerations for busy dental practice:
- Pre-programmed dental protocols
- Simple interface staff can learn quickly
- Portable between operatories
- Easy to clean/disinfect
Training and support matter; choose a vendor who understands dental treatment and protocols
Systems Popular with Dental Practices
EVO Laser System
Class 3BTouchscreen interface with built-in protocols. Multiple wavelengths (660nm, 800nm, 905nm superpulsed) cover the full range of dental applications. Excellent for practices wanting versatility and ease of use.
ATP Max
Class 3BProven technology with superpulsed delivery. Exceptional build quality and durability. Strong research foundation. Includes small probes well-suited for dental precision work.
ReGen Laser
Class 3BExcellent value for practices adding laser therapy. Dual wavelength (808nm + 905nm superpulsed) handles both superficial and deep applications. Straightforward operation.
Avant LZ30
Class 3BCompact, portable, and powerful. The LZ30 series is popular for dentistry because of its small footprint and ease of movement between operatories. Available in multiple wavelength configurations.
Getting Started
Consultation
We'll discuss your practice type, patient population, primary applications of interest, and budget to recommend the right system.
Equipment Selection
Choose a system that fits your needs. We'll explain the differences and help you make an informed decision.
Training
Every purchase includes training on device operation, treatment protocols, safety considerations, and documentation.
Protocol Library Access
Get access to our comprehensive protocol library with specific dental treatment parameters for each condition.
Ongoing Support
Questions don't end after purchase. We're available for clinical questions, protocol refinement, and troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same as a dental surgical laser?
No. Surgical lasers (like Er:YAG or CO2) use high power to cut tissue. Cold lasers/PBM devices work at much lower power levels through photochemical effects. There's no cutting, no heat, and no tissue damage. They serve completely different purposes.
Do I need special certification to use PBM in my practice?
Requirements vary by state. Cold lasers are generally considered adjunctive therapy devices and don't require the same certifications as surgical lasers. However, we recommend checking your state dental board regulations and documenting appropriate training.
Can my hygienist or assistant perform treatments?
In most states, yes—with appropriate training and supervision. PBM application is similar to other adjunctive therapies hygienists routinely provide. Check your state practice act for specifics on delegation.
How do I bill for cold laser therapy?
Most dental practices bill PBM as a fee-for-service treatment. Some practitioners use CDT code D7899 (unspecified TMD therapy) for TMJ or create in-office wellness packages. Insurance coverage is limited but growing, and many patients pay out of pocket for effective pain relief.
Are there any contraindications?
Few absolute contraindications exist. Avoid direct treatment over known malignancies, and use caution during pregnancy (avoid treating over uterus). Patients with photosensitivity disorders or taking photosensitizing medications need evaluation. Eye protection is required during treatment.
How quickly will I see ROI?
Most dental practices report positive ROI within 3-6 months. TMJ treatment series, post-op care packages, and improved case acceptance for surgical procedures all contribute. The patient experience improvements which also drive referrals and retention.
Ready to Add PBM to Your Practice?
Free consultation with a specialist who understands dental applications. We'll help you choose the right system and get started with confidence.
Ask about dental-specific protocol packages and staff training options.