According to the findings of a systematic review and meta-analysis, laser treatment can effectively relieve pain in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and has good efficacy in both myogenic and arthrogenic TMDs. Investigators aimed to assess the effectiveness of laser therapy for TMD management. Electronic databases were explored for searching relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

The eligible studies were independently reviewed by 3 researchers, and the included studies' quality was determined using the risk of bias calculator suggested by the Cochrane handbook. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used as the major endpoint for pain, while left lateral movement (LLE) and right lateral movement (RLE), maximum active vertical opening (MAVO), and maximum passive vertical opening (MPVO) were utilized as secondary outcome measures for TMJ function. Using random effects models and a 95% confidence interval, pooled effect sizes were obtained.

Overall, 28 randomized controlled studies were incorporated. In comparison to the placebo group, laser treatment had a more substantial impact on VAS (standardized mean difference [SMD]=-1.88; I2 =93%), MAVO (MD = 4.90; I2 =72%), MPVO (MD=5.82; I2 =40%), and RLE (MD = 0.73; I2 = 0%). No discernible difference in LLE was there between both groups (MD= 0.35; I2 = 0%).

While laser treatment can successfully relieve pain, it has little impact on enhancing TMD patients' mandibular movement. For additional validation, more well-designed RCTs with large sample sizes are required. Additionally, these investigations should yield complete outcome measure data as well as report thorough laser parameters.