Diabetes mellitus (DM) and
chronic periodontitis are common
chronic diseases in adults in the world population. DM has a strong influence on the oral cavity and represents a risk factor for
gingivitis and
periodontitis.
Low-level laser therapy (
LLLT) has proven effective in the reduction of
inflammation and swelling. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of
LLLT in diabetic
periodontitis through histological analysis. A total of 300 diabetics with chronic
periodontal disease and teeth indicated for extraction were assigned into six equal groups. In the groups 1 and 4, indicated teeth were extracted before treatment, and in the rest of the groups upon completion of the entire treatment. All patients received
oral hygiene instructions and full-mouth conservative periodontal treatment. In groups 3 and 6,
LLLT was applied (670 nm, 5 mW, 2 J/cm(2), 16 min, 5 days). Histologic findings of gingival tissue treated with
LLLT showed expressed healing, as is evident by the absence of inflammatory cells. Tissue
edema could not be seen, and the number of blood vessels was reduced. In the gingival lamina, propria pronounced collagenization and homogenization were present. It can be concluded that
LLLT has shown efficacy in the treatment of
periodontitis in diabetics. Because of more pronounced alterations of periodontium in diabetics, the use of
LLLT is of particular importance.