Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Lower third molar surgeries are most commonly associated with morbidities such as swelling, trismus, post-operative infection, dry socket and pain. Various modalities have been tried to reduce these unwanted adverse effects. In this study, we have evaluated the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in minimising morbidity associated with removal of impacted mandibular third molar. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This in-vivo study was conducted on 60 subjects with similar surgical protocol for both study and control group, with the additional intervention of LLLT in the former. RESULTS: The results showed a statistically significant (P = 0.05) decrease in the level of pain, facial swelling and trismus in the study group. DISCUSSION: LLLT, in continuous mode, has a significant effect in reducing post-extraction morbidities and formation of a stable blood clot within the tooth socket.