Parameters of low-frequency laser phototherapy in the management of pain from temporomandibular joint dysfunction, a systematic review

• Mariam Maita

  Universidad José Antonio Páez. Valencia, Venezuela

  https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9344-4222

• Rafael Alberto Muñoz Morales

  Universidad José Antonio Páez. Valencia, Venezuela

  https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2136-8241

Introduction: Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), classified within temporomandibular disorders, is a common cause of orofacial pain, predominantly affecting women. Low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation (PBM) has become established as a non-invasive alternative with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties; however, considerable heterogeneity persists in application protocols. Objective: To evaluate the evidence on treatment parameters (wavelength, dose, frequency, and number of sessions) for low-level laser therapy in TMD pain. Methods: A PRISMA systematic review was conducted in PubMed, SciELO, Scopus, and Web of Science (2021–2026). Systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials in adults with TMD that described at least two treatment parameters were included. Results: Nine studies were included (five reviews and four trials). The most effective wavelengths were 810–940 nm, with an energy dose of 3–12 J/cm² per point. Protocols of 8–10 sessions, applied twice a week for 4–5 weeks, showed consistent results. Photobiomodulation reduced pain by 60–70% and improved mouth opening by 10–20%, with greater effectiveness in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Conclusions: Low-level laser therapy is effective and safe for pain in TMJ disorders. Optimal parameters include 810–940 nm, 3–12 J/cm², and 8–10 sessions over 4–5 weeks.

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Copyright (c) 2026 Mariam Maita, Rafael Alberto Muñoz Morales

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

ISSN:2244-7857

Depósito Legal: ppi200902CA3925