Efficacy of Photobiomodulation Therapy on the Acupuncture Points on Pain, Maximum Mouth Opening, and Quality of Life in Patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Double-Blinded Randomized Clinical Trial

Objective: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are multi-factorial conditions with a chronic progression that affects individual’s quality of life (QOL). Background: Currently, there is no definitive treatment for TMDs. Few clinical trials have investigated the potential effects of Photobiomodulation therapy on the acupuncture points on these disorders. Methods: Twenty patients with TMD, referred to the facial pain clinic at Semnan Faculty of Dentistry, were randomly assigned into two groups: treatment ( n = 10) and placebo ( n = 10). Treatment group received low-power Photobiomodulation therapy for 3 min at each of 10 acupuncture points, including GB20, SI19, ST6, ST7, and LI4. The placebo group received only the guiding light of the device on the same points. Treatment consisted of 10 sessions (twice a week). QOL was assessed using the OHIP-14 and SF-36 questionnaires at the beginning and end of treatment. Result: Significant differences were observed between the treatment and placebo groups according to pain relief and maximum mouth opening ( p < 0.05; Mann–Whitney). However, no significant difference was observed between the groups for the QOL using OHIP-14. In contrast, the SF-36 showed significant improvements in the physical health subscale in the treatment group. Conclusions: Photobiomodulation therapy on the acupuncture is a complementary, noninvasive therapy that may benefit patients with TMDs.