Before and after low level laser applied to acupoints: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Mônica da Consolação Canuto Salgueiro, Carolina Carvalho Bortoletto, [...], and Sandra Kalil Bussadori
Reference
PMC5549372 (Ref ID)
Chosen Image filename: PMC5549372_additional_file_05.jpg
Document structure and format:
I. Introduction
This research paper titled "Evaluation of muscle activity, bite force and salivary cortisol in children with bruxism before and after low level laser applied to acupoints: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial" investigates the effects of low-level laser therapy applied to acupoints on muscle activity, bite force, and salivary cortisol in children with bruxism. Bruxism is a repetitive activity of the masticatory muscles characterized by tooth grinding and clenching. The study aims to evaluate the changes in these parameters before and after the laser therapy.
II. Methodology
The study utilizes a randomised controlled trial design. The participants are randomly allocated to four groups: the low-level laser group, the occlusal splint group, the placebo laser group, and the control group (without bruxism). Muscle activity is measured using the BTS TMJOINT electromyography, bite force is measured using a digital gnathodynamometer, and salivary cortisol is analyzed at baseline, one month, and six months after treatment. Two-way ANOVA is employed for data analysis, supplemented by Tukey's test.
One limitation of the study is the exclusion of individuals with certain conditions or undergoing another treatment for bruxism. This may limit the generalizability of the findings.
III. Results
The key findings of the research show the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy and occlusal splint usage in reducing muscle activity, bite force, and salivary cortisol levels in children with bruxism. Statistical analyses reveal significant differences between the treatment groups and the control group.
IV. Discussion
The results of the study support the hypothesis that low-level laser therapy and occlusal splint usage are effective in managing bruxism and its associated symptoms. The findings suggest that these interventions can reduce muscle hyperactivity, bite force, and salivary cortisol levels in children with bruxism. This research provides evidence for the potential benefits of low-level laser therapy over acupoints in treating bruxism in children.
The implications of this study's findings are significant for the field of pediatric dentistry and the treatment of bruxism in children. The use of low-level laser therapy and occlusal splints as non-invasive, low-cost treatment options can provide relief and improve the quality of life for children with bruxism. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects and optimal treatment protocols for these interventions.
V. Conclusion
In conclusion, this research paper demonstrates the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy and occlusal splint usage in reducing muscle activity, bite force, and salivary cortisol levels in children with bruxism. The study contributes to the understanding of non-invasive treatment options for bruxism in children and highlights the potential benefits of low-level laser therapy applied to acupoints. Further research is warranted to validate and refine these findings.
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