Efficacy of Photobiomodulation on Neurosensory Recovery in Patients with Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injury Due to Third Molar Extraction and Implant Surgery: a Systematic Review

Objectives: The primary objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the effectiveness of photobiomodulation in promoting neurosensory regeneration in patients with inferior alveolar nerve injury resulting from the extraction of mandibular third molars or dental implant placement.

Material and Methods: An electronic search was conducted across major scientific databases including MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and a total of 10 studies were included for qualitative analysis.

Results: A total of 10 studies were analysed, including 4 randomized clinical trials, 5 case series, and 1 retrospective study. All utilized GaAlAs lasers for photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy with wavelengths ranging from 808 to 830 nm. The number of treatment sessions ranged from 7 to 20, delivered at frequencies of 1, 2, or 3 times per week. Nearly all studies reported statistically significant improvements in both objective and subjective neurosensory assessments in favour of PBM therapy. Additionally, no significant differences were found between groups regarding sex, age, injury aetiology, or time to treatment initiation.

Conclusions: Photobiomodulation shows promising potential in the neurosensory recovery of inferior alveolar nerve injuries. However, further randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are needed to establish standardized clinical protocols and confirm its efficacy in dental practice.

J Oral Maxillofac Res 2025;16(3):e2

doi: 10.5037/jomr.2025.16302

Accepted for publication: 30 September 2025

Keywords: dental implantation; inferior alveolar nerve injuries; laser biostimulation; low level laser therapy; third molar.