Vargas-Neri C. et al. - Photobiomodulation and Temporomandibular Pain: A Systematic Review

This systematic review of 8 independent cohorts concludes that photobiomodulation reduces pain associated with temporomandibular disorders compared to baseline, but that placebo groups often show similar improvement. The certainty of the evidence is low for muscle pain and very low for joint pain: photobiomodulation is presented as a complementary therapy, not as a standalone treatment.

What this study measured

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affect approximately 31% of adults and are a major cause of chronic orofacial pain. Carlos Vargas-Neri’s team sought to determine whether photobiomodulation—formerly known as low-intensity laser therapy—reduces TMD pain compared to a parallel-group control. They distinguished between diagnostic subtypes and assessed both the certainty of the evidence and the quality of the description of light doses.

Four databases were searched (PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) from January 2016 to July 2026. Only controlled clinical trials including participants diagnosed according to the RDC/TMD or DC/TMD criteria were included. The review follows the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was registered on the Open Science Framework. The selection, data extraction, and assessment of risk of bias were performed in duplicate and independently.

Key Findings

Nine studies, representing eight independent cohorts, were included. The study protocols differed too greatly to allow for a quantitative synthesis.

• Wavelengths: 635 to 940 nm
• Energy densities: from 5 to 300 J/cm²
• Pain: reduced compared to baseline in most treatment groups, but often also in the placebo groups
• Muscle pain (myogenic): 3 out of 5 cohorts supported photobiomodulation, 2 did not
• Joint pain: Only one trial had included this separate subgroup, with favorable results for arthralgia but not for myalgia
• Level of evidence: low (myogenic) and very low (arthrogenic)
• Safety: noninvasive technique with no reported adverse effects

How photobiomodulation works for this indication

The abstract does not describe a specific mechanism. Generally speaking, it is proposed that red and near-infrared light, when absorbed by the cells, may modulate inflammation and pain in the masticatory muscles. This hypothesis is not tested in the study, which is limited to comparing pain levels between groups.

She points out, however, that no study has described all of the parameters recommended by the World Association for Laser Therapy (WALT). It is therefore impossible to link a specific result to a precise dose of light.

Limits You Should Know

The placebo groups often showed comparable improvement, which limits the significance of the reductions in pain observed in the treatment groups. Superiority over a sham treatment is not consistent: two out of five myogenic cohorts did not demonstrate it.

The evidence on joint pain is based on a single, small subgroup. No standard protocol has been established; wavelengths, doses, the number of sessions, and follow-up vary widely from one trial to another, which has prevented any meta-analysis. Finally, the research covers only the period from 2016 to 2026.

What This Means in Practice

For individuals with temporomandibular disorder, this review indicates that photobiomodulation may be considered as an adjunct to conservative, multimodal management of jaw muscle pain. Based on the included trials, it is safe and noninvasive, but its benefit compared to placebo remains uncertain.

It should not replace established conservative treatments. A dentist or physician remains the best person to make a diagnosis and choose the appropriate course of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does photobiomodulation relieve jaw pain?

In this review, pain levels decreased compared to baseline in most of the treatment groups. Three out of five cohorts with muscle pain showed a preference for photobiomodulation over a placebo, but two did not confirm this finding.

Does photobiomodulation work for the temporomandibular joint?

The data are very limited: only one trial analyzed joint pain separately, with a favorable result for arthralgia. The certainty of the evidence is considered very low.

Is photobiomodulation safe for the jaw?

The included studies reported no adverse effects. The authors describe it as safe and noninvasive, while noting that the expected benefit compared with a placebo remains uncertain.

Reference

Vargas-Neri C, Benitez-Cárdenas O, Garrocho-Rangel A, et al. Photobiomodulation therapy for the management of pain associated with temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review. Quintessence International, 2026. PMID 42900010. DOI 10.3290/j.qi.b7131331. 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.