LAUSR

Introduction The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of low‐level laser therapy on interleukin‐1&bgr; (IL‐1&bgr;) levels in gingival crevicular fluid and its correlation with orthodontic tooth movement. Methods A split‐mouth design was used in 10 subjects (6 female, 4 male) aged 14 to 25 years, whose maxillary first premolars were extracted. A gallium‐aluminum‐arsenide semiconductor diode laser (wavelength, 940 nm; energy density, 8 J/cm2; power output, 100 mW) delivered low‐level laser therapy to the experimental canine undergoing distalization at 10 points. The control canine was distalized without low‐level laser therapy. The experimental and control canines were distalized using a force of 150 g provided by nickel‐titanium closed‐coil springs. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected at 5 time points from the control and experimental sides, and the levels of IL‐1&bgr; were analyzed by enzyme‐linked immuno‐sorbent assay (ELISA). The distal movements of the maxillary canines were measured and compared. Results Increased levels of IL‐1&bgr; were observed in the experimental canines compared with the control canines (P <0.001). Cumulative tooth movements over an 8‐week experimental period were greater for the experimental canines (occlusogram and software, 4.450 and 4.4903 mm, respectively) compared with the control canines (occlusogram and software, 2.025 and 2.0501 mm, respectively). A positive correlation existed between the IL‐1&bgr; levels and the amounts of tooth movement across all time intervals. Conclusions In combination with light orthodontic force, application of low‐level laser therapy increased the levels of IL‐1&bgr; in gingival crevicular fluid and accelerated orthodontic tooth movement. HighlightsThe effect of low‐level laser on IL‐1&bgr; levels during tooth movement was evaluated.Accelerated tooth movement was synchronous with raised IL‐1&bgr; levels.Elevated IL‐1&bgr; levels reflect the underlying mechanism of expedited tooth movement.Accelerated tooth movement was observed after low‐level laser irradiation.Laser‐facilitated orthodontics is 2 times faster than conventional orthodontics.