This Article was originally written by Dr. Burchman, and is being re-shared here
When we think of using lasers in our practices we think of using class IV surgical lasers which enable us to cut and remove hard and soft tissue. There is however, a separate class of lasers that give us a completely unique property known as photobiomodulation, or PBM. This is the new term for what we used to call low level laser therapy, phototherapy, bio-stimulation, cold lasers, or soft lasers.
The word photobiomodulation can be broken down as follows:
- Photo = light
- Bio = a biological effect
- Modulation = A response to light that can be either a stimulation or inhibition of cell growth.
The use of PBM therapy delivers many beneficial therapeutic outcomes for our patients including but not limited to the alleviation of pain or inflammation, immunomodulation, and promotion of wound healing and tissue regeneration.
The largest current users of PBM are physical therapists, chiropractors and veterinarians. They prominently feature the benefits of this technology in their marketing to attract patients seeking pain relief. Because of this their patients are very familiar with PBM technology, even if it is called another name.
Unfortunately, our profession is lagging behind. I am dedicated to making 2020 the year that dentists begin the full-scale adoption of PBM and become more widely known among healthcare providers and consumers as leaders in pain reduction, tissue healing and using PBM as an alternate to addictive opioid drugs.
My why for this mission is not only because of my 20 years of first-hand experience in treating patients with PBM with amazing results, but because I have personally experienced the tragedy of losing a loved one to opioid addiction.
With that said, here are 8 common conditions that a properly trained dentist or hygienist can effectively treat using PBM:
- Oral Mucositis
- TMJ & Facial Pain
- Tooth Extractions
- Orthodontic Discomfort
- Stimulating Hard & Soft Tissue Growth
- Post Implant Surgery
- Dental Trauma
- Periodontal Surgery
The investment in a PBM-specific laser device does not have to be expensive. In fact, prices range from approximately $2,000 to 25,000. If you do some research, you can probably find one that suits your budget and your intention for use as well.
In my opinion, PBM therapy is perfect for the hygiene department. However, you should always check with your dental board to determine whether your hygienists can become the pain relief and tissue healing champions of your practice.
When it comes to insurance reimbursement, the United state lags far behind Canada and Europe. Here in the states, we can usually submit $80.00 twice for “palliative treatment” with most dental plans. My experience has been most patients don’t mind paying out of pocket for additional treatment because they dramatically improve their quality of life. Many times, I don’t charge the patient as PBM therapy builds priceless trust and loyalty. If you want to bill the patient’s medical insurance, Thor Photomedicine, leading manufacturer of PBM equipment, provides excellent information on its website.
How do you obtain the training necessary to become a proficient PBM therapy practitioner? This year’s Academy of Laser Dentistry Annual Conference, April 2-4th in San Diego will feature a comprehensive track of unbiased PBM lectures and hands-on workshops. I am honored to sharing instructor duties with world-renowned PBM educators such as Dr. Gerry Ross and Dr. Arun Barbar. I hope to see you in San Diego!
About the Author: Dr. Burchman is the president of the Academy of Laser Dentistry and began using lasers in 1999. He currently uses 8 lasers in his clinical practice. He holds ALD Advanced Proficiency and has earned several awards: The Science Behind the Clinic of Laser Dentistry and the ALD Leon Goldman Award for Clinical Excellence. He was featured in Men’s Health Magazine, has completed the ALD Educator Course and earned ALD Mastership for ongoing CE activities. Dr. Burchman is an Academy Recognized Course Provider, a member of the ALD Speaker’s Bureau and has lectured and conducted hands-on workshops internationally. Contact Dr. Burchman at mel712a@aol.com.