Effectiveness of laser therapy in the treatment of hyposalivation: A systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17795476Keywords:
Hyposalivation, Photobiomodulation, Laser therapy, Xerostomia, Dentistry, Salivary glandsAbstract
Introduction: Hyposalivation is a glandular dysfunction characterized by objectively reduced salivary flow, often associated with xerostomia. Etiologies include head-and-neck radiotherapy, autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren syndrome, diabetes and xerogenic drugs. The condition severely impairs quality of life and oral and systemic health.
Objective: To determine the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (photobiomodulation) in treating hyposalivation, analyzing protocols used and clinical outcomes reported in recent literature.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted in PubMed, SciELO, MedlinePlus and Google Scholar. Twenty-four studies from the last 10 years meeting inclusion criteria (systematic reviews, clinical trials and human case reports) were selected; animal studies were excluded.
Results: Evidence from the 24 studies indicates that photobiomodulation (PBM) stimulates salivary gland function, increasing flow and relieving symptoms. Significant benefits were reported in diabetic patients and those with scleroderma and burning mouth syndrome. In radiotherapy, results were mixed: some studies showed flow and pH preservation, others found no significant differences versus controls, though quality-of-life improvements were noted.
Conclusions: Laser is a promising, noninvasive and safe therapeutic tool for hyposalivation. However, variability in dosimetric parameters (wavelength, energy) requires protocol standardization to ensure long-term clinical predictability.
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