Role of Photodynamic Therapy in Dentistry

Abstract

Objective: To provide a comprehensive overview of the applications, mechanisms, and clinical effectiveness of photodynamic therapy in dentistry across a wide range of oral diseases and conditions.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia from January 2025 to October 2025.

Methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted, synthesizing evidence from in vitro studies, randomized controlled trials, clinical investigations, and systematic reviews. The review focused on the mechanisms of PDT, types of light sources and photosensitizers, and its clinical applications in pain management, periodontal and peri-implant diseases, dental caries, endodontic infections, post-extraction complications and oral infections.

Results: The reviewed evidence demonstrates that PDT exerts its therapeutic effects through ROS-mediated destruction of microbial cells and modulation of inflammatory processes. Clinically, PDT has shown promising outcomes in reducing pain, improving healing, and decreasing microbial load across various dental conditions. In periodontal and peri-implant diseases, adjunctive PDT enhances clinical parameters such as probing depth and plaque index. In endodontics and caries management, it improves disinfection and reduces bacterial counts. Additionally, PDT has demonstrated effectiveness in managing oral infections and reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance. However, variability in treatment protocols, photosensitizers, and irradiation parameters limits direct comparison across studies.

Conclusion: Photodynamic therapy represents a promising, safe, and minimally invasive approach in modern dentistry, with broad applications as both a stand-alone and adjunctive treatment. Despite encouraging clinical outcomes, further well-designed, large-scale studies are required to standardize protocols and establish long-term efficacy.