Low Level Laser Therapy

What is Laser Therapy?

For a long time now L.A.S.E.R. has been known as an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.  The now commonly used word LASER refers to a device that projects intense radiation of the light spectrum through a beam of light in which high energies can be concentrated.

Laser light has unique physical properties that no ordinary light has. The unique properties of coherence and monochromaticity are the key to why laser light is so effective in pain reduction and healing when compared to other kinds of light.  Laser therapy, also known as phototherapy and low level laser therapy, involves the application of low power coherent light to injuries and lesions to stimulate healing and reduce pain. It is used to increase the speed, quality and strength of tissue repair, resolve inflammation and give pain relief.  Laser therapy has been found to offer superior healing and pain relieving effects in comparison to other electrotherapeutic modalities such as ultrasound, especially in chronic problems and in the early stages of acute injuries.  Laser therapy is a complete system of treating muscle, tendon, ligament, connective tissue, bone, nerve and dermal tissues in a non-invasive, drug-free modality.

How Does it Work?

The effects of laser therapy are photochemical in general, with super-pulsed lasers such as the Lumix also photomechanical.  By supplying the energy necessary for repair via the photochemical effect and signaling the cell to repair via the photomechanical effect, procedures induce tissue repair.

Lumix laser procedures involve the application of non-invasive, high intensity, non-surgical laser light to promote pain relief, tissue healing and repair.  The light photons re-activate and accelerate cellular functions and act as a medicament.

Cold laser treatments can often be combined with traditional treatment for even better results.  Although some patients may be able to benefit from just one treatment, most patients need multiple treatments.  In our practice we are utilizing Lumix, the most advanced laser, for the following applications:

• Hypersensitivity
• Pocket depth reduction
• Bone regeneration
• Post-scaling pain
• Inflammation
• Dry sockets
• Cold sores & oral ulcers
• TMJ muscle or joint pain
• Paresthesia
• Post-operative tissue healing
• Implant integration

Is Laser Therapy Safe?

Yes.  Laser therapy is a drug-free, non-invasive therapy with superior healing ability.  However, since lasers produce a high intensity light, one should never shine the laser directly into the eye. Further it is recommended that the laser device not be used directly on any neoplastic (abnormal cellular) tissue.  Pregnant patients should refrain from laser therapy applied directly on the abdomen.

Is Laser Therapy Scientifically Well Documented?

There are more than 120 double blind positive studies confirming the clinical effects of laser therapy.  More than 300 research reports have been published.  Looking at the laser therapy dental literature alone, there are over 300 studies.  More than 90% of these studies do verify the clinical value of laser therapy.

Does Laser Therapy Cause Heat Damage or Cancer in the Tissue?

No.  The average powers and the type of light source (non-ionizing) do not permit heat-damage or carcinogenic (cancer-causing) effects.  Due to increased blood circulation, there is sometimes a minimal sensation of warmth locally.