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Oral Health
Published on
October 12, 2026

Mateus O.T.M.V. et al. - Photobiomodulation in Dental Implant Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

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In this meta-analysis of 32 randomized trials (829 patients, 1,278 implants), photobiomodulation is associated with less postoperative pain and better early implant stability. The effects on bone remain modest, and the certainty of the evidence is low to very low.

What this study measured

The authors sought to determine whether photobiomodulation, used in conjunction with dental implant placement, improves implant stability, the surrounding bone, and postoperative pain. The results of previously published trials have been inconsistent.

Olívia Mateus and her colleagues conducted a systematic review with a meta-analysis in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, registered on PROSPERO (CRD420251041607). Six databases and the gray literature were searched between June 2024 and May 2025. Only randomized trials in adults comparing photobiomodulation to a placebo or to no photobiomodulation were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 tool, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed using GRADE.

Key Findings

Thirty-two trials were included, involving 829 patients and 1,278 implants. The random-effects analyses yielded the following results.

  • Postoperative pain: mean difference of -0.27 (95% CI -0.35 to -0.19) in favor of photobiomodulation
  • Stability measured using the Periotest: mean difference -0.55 (95% CI -0.84 to -0.27), with a transient and early improvement
  • Stability based on resonance frequency analysis (ISQ): mean difference 1.26 (95% CI 0.61 to 1.91)
  • Marginal bone loss: mean difference -0.09 mm (95% CI -0.16 to -0.01), representing a statistically significant but clinically minor effect
  • Bone density on 3D CT: initial increase of 114.07 Hounsfield units, but an overall difference of 86.02 that was not statistically significant (p = 0.14)
  • Bone density on 2D X-rays: overall difference of 9.82 (p = 0.03), with a positive trend up to 6 months (24.19; p = 0.04)

How photobiomodulation works for this indication

The study abstract does not specify a mechanism. Generally speaking, it is proposed that red or near-infrared light is absorbed by mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, which could stimulate cellular energy, modulate inflammation, and promote bone cell activity. These ideas remain hypotheses: this meta-analysis measures clinical and radiological outcomes and does not test the mechanism.

Limits You Should Know

According to the authors, the certainty of the evidence, as assessed by GRADE, ranges from low to very low. Protocols vary widely from one trial to another, particularly with regard to the schedule of sessions and measurement methods, making comparisons difficult. Gains in stability are described as early and transient. The effect on marginal bone loss is very small, and 3D bone density does not show a significant change over the entire period. The summary does not specify which irradiation parameters to use.

What This Means in Practice

For patients and healthcare professionals, these findings suggest that photobiomodulation could serve as a complementary treatment to implant surgery, particularly for pain management and stability during the first few weeks. It does not replace surgical planning, follow-up care, or the oral hygiene instructions provided by the dental team. The authors call for standardized trials to establish reproducible protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does photobiomodulation reduce pain after dental implant placement?

In this meta-analysis, it is associated with a reduction in postoperative pain (mean difference -0.27; 95% CI -0.35 to -0.19). However, the certainty of the evidence remains low to very low.

Does it improve the stability of the implant?

The Periotest and ISQ measurements are consistent with an improvement in early stability. The authors describe this improvement as transient, and its long-term effect has not been established by this study.

Is there a recommended protocol?

No. There is significant heterogeneity among the protocols, and the authors emphasize the need for standardized trials before any specific clinical recommendations can be made.

Reference

Mateus OTMV, Czermainski FR, Mateus THA, Souza AS. Photobiomodulation in Dental Implant Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Dentistry Journal, 2026. PMID 42782986. View the study on PubMed

This summary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Photobiomodulation is not a substitute for prescribed treatment. Consult a healthcare professional.