LIGHT THERAPY TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF STOMATOGNATHIC SYSTEM PATHOLOGY IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF EVIDENCE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2786-7684/2026-3-2Keywords:
children, adolescents, light therapy, low-level laser therapy, prevention, pain, orthodontic treatment, temporomandibular joint, gingivitis, dental caries, pulpitis, oral mucosa, pain relief, anxiety managementAbstract
Light therapy, as a method of pathogenetic intervention influencing the course of pathological processes, has already established a strong reputation in the treatment of dental diseases, including those in children and adolescents. However, there is insufficient information regarding the use of light therapy specifically for the prevention of stomatognathic disorders. Addressing this gap is essential for the further integration of light therapy technologies into the clinical practice of pediatric dentistry. Objective: To analyze and summarize current scientific data regarding light therapy as an alternative or adjunctive modality to traditional methods for the treatment and prevention of major dental diseases in children and adolescents, and to determine its diagnostic value and limitations. Materials and Methods. A literature review incorporating structured critical analysis was conducted. The search was conducted across the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases spanning the period from 2014 to 2026. Results. The most widely used light therapeutic methods were analyzed for their application in the treatment and prevention of dental caries, pulpitis, periodontal diseases, oral mucosal disorders, soft-tissue structural and attachment anomalies, and temporomandibular joint disorders, as well as for optimizing orthodontic care in children and adolescents. Conclusions. Due to its ability to modulate the microbial environment and stimulate tissue regeneration, light therapy represents a promising preventive approach for managing dental caries and its complications, gingivitis, and periodontal diseases, as well as for maintaining the functional state of the temporomandibular joint and preventing pathological processes within its tissues. Furthermore, the use of minimally invasive light therapy modalities can alleviate pain during local anesthesia administration, reduce treatment-related psychological discomfort, and improve patient satisfaction with the quality of dental care.
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