Dosimetric Mapping of the Dental Oral Craniofacial Region for PBM/PDT.

Objectives: Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, delivered via red/near-infrared light, shows promise in dental medicine by modulating mitochondrial function and signaling pathways (TRPV, Opsin, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β). Proper PBM dosage enhances tissue repair, glycemic management in type 2 diabetics, alveolar socket preservation, and reduces post-surgical pain and narcotic reliance. Despite advancements, the precise delivery of PBM is challenging due to the complex optical and anatomical properties of intraoral tissues. This study addresses these complexities through advanced medical physics techniques to develop a dosimetric map for optimizing PBM.
Methods: Using a novel translational approach, we calibrated the optical properties of relevant intraoral sites in five porcine mandible cadavers. Advanced optical surface devices captured the intricate geometric shapes of the craniofacial complex, facilitating real-time fluence calculations at 660nm and 810nm (n=4,200 data points). A comprehensive histologic analysis elucidated how light propagates through various tissues. Data were analyzed using SPSS.
Results: Our findings demonstrate marked variations in light transmission influenced by tissue optical properties rather than laser output. A significant correlation between light transmission and specific anatomical regions was observed. These results underscore the heterogeneity of craniofacial tissues, emphasizing wavelength- and depth-dependent characteristics critical for optimal PBM delivery. Understanding these factors refines treatment parameters, enhancing PBM’s therapeutic efficacy.
Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive dosimetric map of intraoral tissues, revealing critical insights into how light traverses the oral craniofacial complex. By highlighting unique optical properties that vary by tissue type, we provide a groundwork for a transformative approach in dentistry. This methodology enhances the delivery of PBM, offering a blueprint for improved PBM protocols that advance personalized, non-invasive therapeutic strategies in dentistry.