Patients treated for head and neck cancer commonly suffer from oral mucositis, ulceration, bacterial infection causing pain, discomfort, impairment of speech and deglutition, leading to dehydration, poor nutrition and mortality. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is a promising state of the art method which can be used effectively to reduce these side effects. It works on the principle of photo-bio stimulation. LLLT induces a biological response through energy transfer within the cells. It has anti-inflammatory effects, stimulates the immune system, increases of blood flow, upsurges cellular metabolism thus boosts rapid wound healing. Cells play a crucial role in oral healing. However, little is known about the molecular basis of LLLT to modulate cell mechanism. Hence for better understanding, this review article aims to discuss the mechanism of action, recommended parameters of LLLT, biological effects on various oral cells and potential application to revive the adverse effects of onco-therapy on head and neck cancer patients.
Key words: photobiomodulation, oral cells, health care, head and neck malignancies.
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