Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a therapy induced by a specific type of laser that affects biologic systems through non-thermal ways. The study of its basic mechanism has gained interest since little is known about the causes of the different effects of this treatment. In the present study, we investigated the action of the PBM application rate changes in the peri-implant tissues in rats subjected to tooth movement in different periods. Wistar rats (±250 g) received an apparatus in the region of the central incisors superiors tightly (70 g) or not, and they were also subjected to one or three PBM sessions. After 7 or 14 days, the rats were subjected to euthanasia and the jaws were dissected and processed for histology. For analysis, serial sections were made that were stained by Picrosirius Red for analysis of collagen fibers, Masson's trichrome for newly formed bone scan, and Hematoxylin-Eosin for quantification of osteoblasts. PBM applied in one or three sessions increased the population of osteoblasts. Still, the application of three sessions of PBM increased the density of collagen fibers and new bone formation compared to the controls. An increase was observed in the interincisal distance in irradiated groups with three PBM sessions and the application of force for both 7 or 14 days. These findings suggest that PBM can contribute positively to the orthodontic movement. So the laser therapy can be used as an adjunct procedure to be performed concurrently for orthodontic treatment in the dental clinic.
Keywords: Bone cells and collagen fibers; Low-intensity laser therapy; Tooth movement.