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Red Light Therapy for Teeth and Gums: Enhance Your Smile Naturally

Explore the science behind red light therapy for teeth and gums and unlock a radiant smile. Learn how this innovative approach promotes oral health and teeth whitening.

RedlightTherapyDigest Staff By RLTD Staff Updated May 31, 2024
Medically reviewed Medically reviewed by: Brendan Camp, MD
Advertising Disclosure: Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; we may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. You can learn more about our review process here.

Overview

We have heard over and over again since playgroup that oral health is essential. However, most of us aren’t committed to maintaining proper oral care as we grow and life gets busy. Most of us just do the bare minimum of brushing our teeth, but sadly, that’s not enough to maintain excellent oral health.

Despite having all the information at the click of a button and being a call away from a dentist’s appointment, we still wait until we have a wake-up call from toothache or cavities to take oral health seriously.

“Not all people really appreciate their oral health, and they’re only reminded of it when they have a toothache or some pain,” says Dr. Frank Scannapieco, a professor of oral biology at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine.

Great oral care is essential for achieving oral health, keeping your breath fresh and your smile bright. When oral health is great, you avoid gum and teeth diseases and other health concerns linked to poor oral health, such as diabetes and pneumonia.

“You treat periodontal disease, you improve the diabetes,” said Ananda P. Dasanayake, a professor of epidemiology at the New York University College of Dentistry.

Red Light Therapy has evolved since its discovery when NASA used it for plant growth in space. It was then used to enhance wound healing in astronauts. Many uses and benefits were discovered later. The use of red light therapy evolved into many novel, exciting treatments, like pain management, oral health and many more. It also has incredible benefits for the body, such as reducing inflammation and improving the function of cells.

Therefore, it’s crucial to incorporate simple yet effective practices such as Red Light Therapy to achieve maximum oral care and overall health.

So, what is Red Light Therapy, you ask? Red Light Therapy is an emerging treatment that uses low wavelengths of red light to penetrate the skin to treat or improve your condition.

Can Red Light Therapy Help With Oral Health?

While brushing your teeth and flossing are excellent oral care practices, Red Light Therapy and visiting the dentist positively impact your oral health. They also reduce the risk of gum and tooth disease.

The red light wavelengths are effective because they stimulate healing, repair, and recovery. Red Light also creates a healthy oral environment free of bacteria and disease.

Red Light Therapy is ideal for stimulating cells, reducing oxidative damage to cells, and improving blood circulation, all of which play different roles in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

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How Does Red Light Work For Oral Health?

Red Light Therapy has many beneficial results in oral health. It’s an alternative, painless, and non-invasive solution to tackling dental problems at a reasonable cost compared to the expensive regular treatments.

Red Light Therapy uses red light wavelengths at targeted spots in the human body to stimulate healing, repair, and recovery.

As explained in our previous article, When Red Light penetrates deep into the skin into the cells, it increases ATP at the mitochondrial level, increasing blood circulation and promoting the regeneration of teeth and gum tissues, reducing harmful bacteria in the dental formula.

“You stimulate cellular energy, and you stimulate the body’s ability to repair.” says red light therapy researcher Janis T. Eells, PhD

Red Light also reduces the inflammation of tissues and cells, which is ideal for preventing oral diseases, reducing pain, and aiding in recovery.

“For example, a phase-three clinical trial showed the benefit of red light in reducing oral mucositis [tissue swelling and irritation in the mouth] in bone marrow transplant patients through an extraoral (outside of the mouth) application of only a couple minutes,” says red light therapy researcher Janis T. Eells, PhD, a professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Red Light Therapy is also effective in improving the outcomes of dental treatments due to the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of red light.

What Oral Problems Can Be Healed With Red Light Therapy

Red Light Therapy can treat and heal several oral problems. Here are some of them:

  • It’s effective in treating gingivitis.
  • It heals tooth sensitivity.
  • It prevents and improves tooth decay and gum and bone damage.
  • It enhances healing after dental procedures.

What Do Scientific Studies Say About Red Light For Oral Health?

There’s substantial evidence and thorough research to examine Red Light Therapy’s benefits for oral health. Below are some of the results of studies and research we’ve found regarding red light for oral health:

  • A study examining the effectiveness of Red Light Therapy in treating gingivitis in children showed that using a low-level laser can significantly improve and eliminate bacteria and gingivitis.
  • Another study also showed a significant reduction in dental bacteria in patients with chronic periodontitis. The study reports show that the group of LLLT patients showed a statistically significant decrease in the prevalence of bacteria after treatment, thus helping us conclude that red light is suitable for periodontitis treatment.
  • A recent study reveals that Red Light Therapy helps in tissue regeneration, which is ideal for maintaining healthy bones and gum tissues.
  • Red Light also promotes wound healing and reduces mouth ulcers and sores. It’s also effective in minimizing pain and significantly impacts managing dental ulcers.
  • Tooth sensitivity is another annoying condition that Red Light Therapy tackles effectively. Research done on two groups showed that the group that used red light experienced significant relief in tooth sensitivity.
  • A 2020 study shows Red Light’s effect in supporting teeth movement, effectively helping you achieve a straight smile in the shortest time possible.

What Side Effects Should You Expect?

Red Light Therapy boasts of its safe treatment profile compared to other options available. So far, red light doesn’t have adverse side effects apart from complaints of causing redness or mild skin irritation when used for a long time. Red Light Therapy may not be ideal if you have sensitive skin or any skin condition.

If you have any concerns, please consult a professional healthcare provider to clear the air regarding using Red Light Therapy.

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Is It Worth It?

Red Light Therapy is a treatment option that’s more sustainable and cost-effective due to its simple nature of treatment compared to traditional oral health treatments. Red Light devices also consume moderate energy because they aren’t used for long hours. Red Light Therapy is also painless and non-invasive, thus totally worth it.

According to scientific studies and research on Red Light Therapy for oral health, there’s enough evidence that it’s effective and worth it. The benefits associated with using Red Light for oral health are impressive and not only give you an easy dental care option but add to your confidence by helping you achieve a bright, healthy smile.

Red Light is ideal as a regular oral care option and offers a perfect boost to dental treatment, helping you recover and heal quickly.

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Customer Reviews

Here are some unfiltered customer reviews of individuals who’ve used red light for their oral health:

A verified buyer of Novaalab Oral Care Pro shared how the light therapy device improved their oral health after a dental procedure.

After having minor gum surgery, I began using my Novaa Oral Care Pro device. A week and a half later, I returned to my periodontist, and she was amazed at how quickly I was healing and how great my gums looked. I just saw her again today, and she was thrilled I brought the device in to show her. She told me she researched it, which is a highly effective device. I am so grateful!! I’ve ordered three more for my husband and adult sons. says Lisa

Another satisfied customer shared how the Red Light Therapy device improved their dental problems.

I am very pleased with this device. I purchased it to help with sensitivity, receding gums, and gum health. After two months, I started to see improvements with both of those issues and the added benefit of whiter teeth. I love coffee & tea, and my teeth showed it. I have purchased whitening strips and a paint-on solution with the added light therapy and never had much improvement because I had to stop using them because of sensitivity. My teeth were noticeably whiter by week 2 with this. Another added benefit is if I use the device around bedtime, I don’t wake up with bad breath or a film on my teeth. The battery is easy to use, and I love the LED screen/easy to read & figure out. The mouthpiece is comfortable, and I stick the battery in my pocket and wear it while walking around. When I had a question, the response and customer service were fantastic. I am happy I purchased this and highly recommend it. says Kristi

Another customer said the light therapy device has improved their dental issues.

Just had my best cleaning today! I have periodontal issues and receding gums. I’ve been brushing, flossing, and even oil pulling, but I added the oral red light therapy. The only thing I’ve done differently between this cleaning and previous ones is to use the Novoral Care Pro. The hygienist said my gums are looking so much better!! says Erin

These reviews prove Red Light Therapy is ideal for maintaining the best oral care practices and improving oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Use Red Light Device For Oral Health?

A: Different ways to use Red Light for oral health depend on your desired device or treatment. Therefore, the best way is to follow the instructions on your device or the guidance of an oral specialist who knows how to navigate Red Light Therapy.

Can Red Light Therapy Cure Oral Diseases?

A: According to the studies highlighted in the content, Red Light therapy can cure oral diseases or enhance the results of various dental treatments.

Is Red Light Good For Oral Health?

A: Red Light is suitable for oral health if used as targeted treatment with specific wavelengths for different oral issues.

When Is The Best Time To Start Red Light Therapy?

A: The best time to start is whenever you’re ready, preferably before you get any oral health problems. It’s good to start early to prevent any teeth or gum problems.

How Long Does Red Light Therapy Take?

A: The Red Light Therapy treatment is different from one person to the other depending on their oral health status and how they respond to the light therapy.

Does Red Light Improve Teeth And Gum Quality?

A: Experts believe that Red Light improves teeth and gum health. They also think Red Light prevents oxidative damage and tissue degeneration, maintaining their quality and strength.

Who Should Use Red Light Therapy?

A: Anyone can use red light for oral health provided it’s used under professional guidance or use approved devices. Children should only use red light therapy with adult supervision and proper guidance.

Where Do You Get Red Light Therapy For Oral Care?

A: You can get the therapy at a dentist or doctor’s office or purchase your red light device for at-home use. However, be warned that at home, red light therapy may cause you injury or burns if it’s prolonged or used without proper guidance.

How Many Red Light Therapy Sessions Will I Need?

A: The sessions will depend on your oral care needs. You can ask your dentist or healthcare provider to approximate your needed sessions.

Conclusion

Maintaining a proper oral care routine and scheduling dentist appointments every six months is perfect for oral health. However, including red light therapy in between elevates the experience and enhances oral health.

As we’ve seen, plenty of evidence shows red light therapy has plenty of benefits for oral health, such as enhancing teeth and gum health to promoting wound healing. We’ve also noticed that effective use of red light can encourage repair and prevent oral bacterial diseases.

Another feature of red light therapy’s beauty is that it is painless, non-invasive, and relatively cheap compared to other dental treatments and therapies. Therefore, you get elevated results at almost half the price! Red light therapy could be what you’ve been looking for to get that a thousand-dollar smile. If that sounds like something you’d like, feel free to incorporate red light therapy into your oral care list. We are confident you won’t regret it. Also, we captured red light therapy on testosterone, which we believe you may want to have a look at as it dives into sexual health and more.

By Brendan Camp, MD

Brendan Camp, MD, is double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology and sees patients at MDCS Dermatology.

**This is a subjective assessment based on the strength of the available information and our estimation of efficacy.

*Result may vary. The information contained in this website is provided for general informational purposes only. No medical claims are implied in this content, and the information herein is not intended be used for self diagnosis or self treatment of any condition.

Disclosure of Material connection: Some of the links in the post above are "associate sales links." This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, we will receive commission. Regardless, we only recommend products or services which we use personally and/or believe will add value to our readers. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials."

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