Evidências científicas sobre laserterapia no manejo da disfunção temporomandibular (DTM): uma overview

Abstract

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are multifactorial conditions that affect the masticatory muscles, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and adjacent structures, causing non-odontogenic orofacial pain, limited movement, joint sounds, and functional impairment. Among conservative treatment options, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been gaining prominence as a noninvasive modality with the potential to promote analgesia, modulate inflammation, and improve muscle function. This study aimed to provide an overview of the literature on the effectiveness of LLLT in the management of TMD. The search was conducted in the PubMed and Scopus databases. Of the 194 studies initially retrieved, 24 met all the inclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative analysis. The findings indicated that LLLT is effective in reducing orofacial pain, particularly in muscular TMD with trigger points, as well as improving mouth opening and enhancing quality of life. Applications varied in technical parameters such as wavelength (780–904 nm), power output (30–500 mW), and energy density (4–10 J/cm2), and were typically performed at specific sites of the masticatory muscles and TMJ.Despite methodological heterogeneity among the studies, the overall results were positive, highlighting the safety, tolerability, and potential for integration with other conservative therapies. In conclusion, low-level laser therapy appears to be a safe, effective, and noninvasive intervention for the conservative treatment of temporomandibular disorders, particularly in cases of muscular origin with myofascial pain.