Temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome (TMD is a common disorder of the temporomandibular joint. The most observed symptoms of the diseases are pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, difficulty in jaw movements, and teeth sensitivity. Other symptoms are headaches, pain surrounding the eyes, neck pains and trismus. Patients who suffer from temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome face constant discomfort; this deters and negatively affects their productivity and overall living conditions.
Over the years, medical professionals have utilized several methods in an attempt to relieve the painful symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome among patients. One method that has recorded profound results is red light therapy. Red light therapy is a simple treatment process that uses low wavelength invisible to the eyes but felt by the body as heat to treat temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome. The mitochondria, which are a significant part of the body’s cells, soak up the energy from this low wavelength, which in turn creates energy that can help cells repair themselves.
Fifty students from the College of Dentistry/University of Baghdad recently carried out a research study to ascertain how effective red light therapy was in the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome. The team conducted the study on a group of 10 men and 40 women. The patients were divided into two groups; the first group was administered red light therapy while the second group was placed on placebo (no treatment at all). If the group that was placed on red light therapy experience any significant change in the painful symptoms, the team will be able to arrive at a conclusion regarding the effectiveness of red light therapy in treating temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome.
At the end of the trial, the group placed on red light therapy experienced significant relief compared to the group given no treatment. The team was able to draw a conclusion that the helpful effects of red light therapy in treating temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome were evident. It is a reliable treatment method to improve a patient’s symptoms concerning pain, clicking or popping sounds and tender muscles. The study also noted a tremendous positive psychological impact on the patients placed on red light therapy.