Red Light Therapy For Teeth, Gums & Oral Health: What Do The Scientific Studies Show?

Oral health greatly affects our behavior and our performance in social and professional settings. It affects our ability to eat, speak, smile, and show emotions. [1]

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that oral diseases, which range from cavities and gum disease to oral cancer, cause pain and disability for millions of Americans and cost taxpayers billions of dollars each year. [1] Furthermore, the global cosmetic dentistry market will reach $32.73 billion by 2026, which shows that there is a huge demand for dental procedures, and it will only continue to grow. [2]

VitaliZEN Cosmo (60 Watt)	VitaliZEN Apollo (600 Watt)	VitaliZEN Max (1200 Watt)

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), oral health serves as a crucial gauge of one's general health, overall quality of life, and well-being. It encompasses a spectrum of health issues and ailments, including but not limited to dental cavities, periodontal diseases, tooth loss, oral cancer, HIV-related oral manifestations, as well as congenital issues like cleft lip and palate. [3]

The Intersection of Oral Health and Red-Light Therapy

Red Light Therapy is an emerging treatment that has shown a wide array of health benefits. [4] Furthermore, it can be used for oral hygiene routine as well. Below are some of the benefits of Red-Light Therapy:

• Pain and Inflammation Relief
• Improved Cognitive Function
• Boosted Immune Health
• Enhanced Mental Well-Being
• Joint Pain and Arthritis Relief
• Effective Skin Rejuvenation
• Accelerated Wound and Scar Healing

Continue reading to find out how Red-Light Therapy can help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful white smile.

Oral Care And Its Impact On Overall Health

Oral health is an essential part of our overall well being, often serving as a silent indicator of one’s general health status. [5] Considering that our mouth is the gateway to our digestive system, it becomes all the more important that we maintain good oral hygiene. A strong foundation in oral health serves as a preventive measure against an array of dental conditions, and it encompasses not only the aesthetic aspects of oral care but also functional and health related dimensions. [5]

Factors that highlight the importance of oral hygiene are listed below:

Nutrition And Digestion:

The mouth is the initial gateway to the digestive system. Proper mastication, facilitated by good oral health, ensures that food is broken down effectively, enhancing nutrient absorption and promoting overall health. [7]

Prevention Of Dental Diseases:

Oral health practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can prevent common dental issues like dental caries (cavities) and periodontal disease, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to more severe health complications.

Quality Of Life:

A healthy smile boosts self esteem and confidence, enhancing one's social and psychological well-being. It enables individuals to interact comfortably with others and express themselves without inhibition.

Systemic Health:

Emerging research has established a link between oral health and systemic health. According to Harvard, poor oral health has been associated with an increased risk of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, periodontal disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. [7]

Common Oral Diseases

Neglecting oral health can increase the risk of various diseases. Gum disease, for instance, has links to heart problems and diabetes, while untreated tooth decay can lead to infections. Chronic oral inflammation may even contribute to systemic issues like respiratory infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes. [9] Research from the Mayo Clinic indicates that there are strong indications linking oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with gum disease to a range of serious conditions. [10]

These include:

Endocarditis:

This condition arises when bacteria or germs from the mouth enter the bloodstream and adhere to specific areas within the heart, leading to an infection in the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves.

Cardiovascular Disease:

Although ongoing research is exploring the connection, there is suggestive evidence linking gum disease's inflammation and infections to heart disease, arterial blockages, and strokes.

Pregnancy and Birth Complications:

Severe gum disease, known as periodontitis, has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight in infants.

Respiratory Conditions:

Oral bacteria can be aspirated into the lungs, potentially leading to pneumonia and other respiratory issues.

Diabetes:

Individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to oral disease, making it challenging to manage blood sugar levels, creating a complex interplay.

Additionally, research is uncovering links between gum disease and other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's, and dementia. [10] 

The Surge of Cosmetic Dentistry: Chasing The Perfect Smile

The pursuit of a perfect smile or addressing critical oral health issues often comes with a hefty price tag. Oral treatment procedures, especially cosmetic dentistry, can be significantly expensive. [11]

• Teeth whitening: Typically costs between $200 - $1,000, depending on the chosen treatment and the number of dental visits required for the procedure. [11]
• Veneers: Priced at $500 - $2,000 per tooth, veneers are a cosmetic option to enhance the appearance of teeth, often used for addressing imperfections. [11]
• Bonding: A cost effective solution at $100 - $400 per tooth, dental bonding is used to repair minor tooth issues such as chips and gaps. [11]
• Orthodontic treatments: The cost varies but generally falls between $3,000 - $6,000, and it depends on the duration of treatment for straightening teeth using braces or aligners. [11]
• Dental implants: Typically priced between $1,500 - $6,000 per tooth, dental implants are a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. [11]

Red-Light Therapy: How Red-Light Therapy Can Help You Maintain Beautiful White Teeth & Healthy Gums

What is Red-Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT) is a therapeutic technique known for its potential in promoting the healing of skin, muscle tissue, and various body parts. It involves the exposure of the body to low-intensity red or near-infrared light, a form of energy that's invisible to the human eye but can be sensed as warmth by the body. While infrared light is not visible, red light is perceptible to the naked eye.

Red-Light therapy is also referred to as low level laser therapy (LLLT), low-power laser therapy (LPLT), and photobiomodulation (PBM). [12]

Benefits of Red-Light Therapy for Healthy Teeth and Gums

By harnessing the unique properties of specific light wavelengths, RLT offers targeted therapeutic advantages to specific areas of the body, such as damaged tissues, blood vessels, and nerves impacted by injury or illness. This approach effectively mitigates pain and expedites the recuperative process. RLT can be used for some of the following oral procedures.

 Red-Light Therapy (RLT) for Chronic Gingivitis

Chronic gingivitis is a common issue in children and is considered a risk factor for more severe periodontal diseases. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of low level light therapy in the treatment of chronic gingivitis in children. [13]

Study Methodology:

The study involved 100 children with permanent dentition suffering from chronic gingivitis. They were divided into two groups: Group I (basic therapy) and Group II (basic therapy along with low-level light therapy). Evaluation of oral hygiene, gingival health, and periodontal condition was conducted using appropriate indices before and after treatment to assess the effectiveness of low-level light therapy in managing chronic gingivitis in children. [13]

Results:

• Plaque Index (PI) was reduced to zero in both groups after treatment.
• Sulcus Plaque Index (SPI) dropped significantly in both groups after therapy.
• Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) showed a marked decrease in both groups after treatment.

Conclusion:

• Basic treatment is effective in addressing chronic gingivitis in children.
• The addition of low-level laser therapy significantly enhances the treatment's success.

In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of low-level light therapy as a valuable adjunct to conventional therapy in managing chronic gingivitis in children, ultimately improving oral health outcomes. [13]

Red-Light Therapy For Rapid Relief Of Recurrent Mouth Ulcers

This study explores the potential of Low-level light therapy (LLLT) as a treatment for recurrent aphthous ulcers, commonly known as canker sores. The primary objectives were to reduce pain, minimize lesion size, and expedite the healing process. The study included 30 patients with two separate aphthous ulcers, randomly allocated into either the active LLLT treatment group or the sham control group. The active group received LLLT in a single session divided into four sessions, while the sham control group underwent a similar procedure without activating the light unit. Patients were assessed for pain, lesion size, and complete healing immediately post-LLLT and at one, two, and three days of follow-up. [14]

Results:

• Complete resolution of ulcers in the active LLLT group occurred in an average of 3.05 ± 1.10 days, significantly faster than the sham control group, which took 8.90 ± 2.45 days to heal.
• Following LLLT application, 28 out of 30 patients in the active group experienced immediate pain relief.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Low-level light therapy demonstrated effectiveness in relieving pain and accelerating the healing process when treating recurrent aphthous ulcers. [14]

Enhancing Health Of Teeth And Gums With Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)

Low-level light therapy (LLLT) presents a promising approach in dental care. Recent studies have explored its applications in addressing pulpal responses, vital pulp therapy, alveolar socket healing, and pulpotomy procedures, highlighting its versatility and potential for enhancing dental health.

• According to a 2014 study, which aimed to evaluate the effects of low-level light therapy (LLLT) on pulpal responses in primary teeth. The results revealed that LLLT, especially when combined with calcium hydroxide, produced satisfactory outcomes for pulp tissue healing. [15]
• Moving on to this 2015 study, it compared the clinical and radiographic effectiveness of LLLT in vital pulp therapy for human primary teeth. The findings suggested that LLLT, whether used alone or in conjunction with calcium hydroxide, displayed promise in vital pulp therapy for primary teeth. [16]
• In the 2019 study, researchers explored the application of LLLT to expedite the healing process in alveolar sockets following tooth extractions. Their work showed that LLLT could accelerate bone and soft tissue regeneration, offering potential improvements in post-extraction recovery. [15]
• Lastly, the 2020 study compared LLLT with Formocresol (FC) for Pulpotomy in primary teeth. Both treatments demonstrated favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes over a 12-month period, emphasizing the potential of LLLT as a valuable alternative for dental conditions in patients of different age groups. Further research with extended follow-up is encouraged to validate these promising findings. [15]

Are There Any Side Effects / Risks Associated With Red-Light Therapy?

Red-light therapy is gaining recognition for its effectiveness in various treatments, including dental care, with a significant advantage – it typically has no side effects. This non-invasive approach to promoting oral health and overall well-being offers a valuable option for individuals seeking alternative solutions. However, it's important to note that while red-light therapy can be remarkably effective in addressing a range of concerns, it may not represent a cure. It often serves as a supportive, complementary treatment alongside existing healthcare strategies, contributing to the quest for enhanced health and vitality.

 
Save Potentially Thousands With Red Light Therapy At Home

Previously, red-light therapy treatments were often associated with high costs, with visits to exclusive spas or wellness centers ranging from $100 to $500 per session. This pricing model limited the accessibility of red-light therapy, making it a luxury reserved for a select few.

Now, however, the barrier of cost has been significantly lowered. There are at-home red-light therapy offerings that provide a cost-effective and accessible way to support the health of your gums, teeth, and mouth. 

How To Use Red Light Therapy At Home For Your Teeth And Gums

• Select a Stable Surface: Choose a stable surface in a comfortable location, ensuring the product can be positioned securely.
• Position the Red-Light Product: Place the red-light product within easy reach and aim it toward your mouth.
• Prepare for the Session: Open your mouth comfortably and ensure the light from the product can reach your mouth, gums, and teeth.
• Begin the Session: Activate the red-light product, and allow it to illuminate your oral area for 15-20 minutes.
• Relax and Repeat: During the session, relax and let the red light work its magic. For best results, consider repeating this process regularly to support your oral care.

Next Steps: 

Depending on your budget and your needs, there are several red light therapy products, with a money back guarantee you can test out for yourself to experience the benefits.

VitaliZEN Cosmo Red Light – Portable 60-Watt Healing Therapy For Teeth And Gums 

The benefit is to take your red light therapy with you wherever you are as it's completely portable and built to last. The only downside is that it isn't as powerful as the other options below. If you travel a lot this may be the perfect light for you.

VitaliZEN Apollo Red Light - 600-Watt Healing Therapy For Teeth And Gums

This is a wall connected red light and is one of our customer's favorite models. This is 10x as powerful as the portable model. You can mount it on the wall in your bathroom and use it after you brush each day to support optimal oral health (plus get numerous other study demonstrated benefits from red light therapy).

VitaliZEN Max Full Body Red Light 1200-Watt Healing Therapy For Teeth And Gums

This is a wall connected red light and is one of our customer's favorite models. This is 20x as powerful as the portable model and 2x as powerful as the 600 Watt Model. You can mount it on the wall in your bathroom and use it after you brush each day to support optimal oral health (plus get numerous other study demonstrated benefits from red light therapy).

References

[1] "Basics of Oral Health," CDC, [Online].
[2] "Cosmetic Dentistry Market To Reach USD 32.73 Billion By 2026 | Reports And Data," Globe News Wire, [Online]
[3] "Oral health," World Health Organization (WHO), [Online]. 
[4] L. Schober, "health," [Online].
[5] "The Surprising Connections Between Oral Health and Well Being," University of Illinois Chicago, [Online]. 
[6] "The connection between oral health and overall health," Guardian Life, [Online].
[7] D. Steven Lin, "Why Healthy Digestion Begins in the Mouth," very Well Health, [Online].
[8] R. H. Shmerling, "Gum disease and the connection to heart disease," Harvard Health Publishing, [Online].
[9] CDC, "Oral Health Conditions," CDC, [Online].
[10] Art20047475 Mayo Clinic, [Online].
[11] Naperville, "Cosmetic Dentistry: What It Is, Type, Procedures & Costs," Naperville Website.
[12] webMD, "What is Red Light Therapy?,"
[13] L. K. M. A. L. K. Marija Igić, "Low-level laser efficiency in the therapy of chronic gingivitis in children," PubMed.
[14] J. C. D. Res., "Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Treatment of Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers – A Sham Controlled, Split Mouth Follow Up Study," PubMed, [Online]. 
[15] N. L. N. C. d. O. R. A. P. F. V. T. S. M. A. A. M. M. T. M. O. Nádia Carolina Teixeira Marques, "Low-level laser therapy as an alternative for pulpotomy in human primary teeth," PubMed, 
[16] N. L. N. N. C. T. M. A. B. S. M. V. T. S. T. C. S. M. A. A. M. M. T. M. O. Ana Paula Fernandes, "Clinical and radiographic outcomes of the use of Low-Level Laser Therapy in vital pulp of primary teeth," PubMed.