Low energy 904-nm diode laser for the treatment of oral lichen planus (OLP)

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: Oral lichen planus is chronic inflammatory disease of the oral mucosa. The exact etiology is unknown but there are many factors associated with it. However there has been much research into immune and pathological mechanisms that underlie oral lichen planus. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is use in base on the concept that certain doses of specific wave length can turn on or off certain immuno cellular components or functions as well as aid in healing and reducing pain of the lesion. The aim of this study was to clinical evaluation of low level laser therapy, at certain dose, on symptomatic OLP.
Patients and method: six patients with symptomatic OLP treated with low level GaAs laser, 5 minutes time of radiation exposure twice a week, for four visits.
Results: Pain sensation and erythema were disappeared but white hyperkeratosis did not affected by laser therapy.
Conclusions: LLLT act as biostimulation that inhibit pain and inflammation in OLP but not hyperkeratotic area.
Keywords: Oral, lichen planus, laser. (J Bagh Coll Dentistry 2008; 20(2):76-78)