The effect of photobiomodulation on oral microbiota dysbiosis: A literature review
Maryam Pourhajibagher, Fateme Gharibpour, Nariman Nikparto, Rashin Bahrami, Abbas Bahador
Abstract
• Photobiomodulation (PBM) via any type of light source (Light-emitting diode [LED] and Laser) has an antimicrobial effect against oral microbiota dysbiosis, especially against black pigment bacteria due to their endogenous photosensitizers. • The suggested wavelength of LED-mediated photobiomodulation is between blue light (400–500 nm) because it can generate more reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to red light (500–800 nm). • Diode lasers with a wavelength range of 660 to 980 nm (red and near-infrared light) and exposure times of less than 60 s (based on their power) are commonly applied as antimicrobial methods. The balance, or dysbiosis, of the microbial community is crucial for human health and disease. While most microbes are harmless, some can lead to oral infections such as periodontal disease, dental caries, and infections related to Candida biofilms. Conventional treatments, such as mechanical debridement, antibiotics, probiotics, and prebiotics, aim to restore the balance of oral microbiota, but they encounter challenges like microbial resistance and patient compliance issues. To address these problems, laser therapy has emerged as a promising local treatment option. Among the various types of lasers, low-power lasers—specifically low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy—are particularly favored for oral applications due to their antimicrobial effects and non-invasive properties. PBM influences oral microbiota dysbiosis through both direct and indirect pathways. The direct effect occurs when endogenous targets are remained within the cell or released into the colony. In contrast, an indirect effect can result from targets located in the tissues and cells surrounding the bacteria. However, studies using different irradiation protocols have produced varied results. Therefore, this study aims to investigate and review the effects of PBM on oral microbiota dysbiosis and its potential in promoting the maintenance of human health.