Scope of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in Orthodontics and related research: A review

Abstract Background The aim of the present study was to comprehensively review indexed literature regarding the potential role of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in Orthodontics. Methods Indexed databases were searched up to and including January 2019 using the following key words: (a) antimicrobial photodynamic therapy; (b) antimicrobial photodynamic chemotherapy; (c) orthodontic; and (d) orthodontics. Original (clinical and experimental) studies, case-reports, and case-series were included. Letters to the Editor, commentaries and review articles were excluded. Results Out of the 29 studies identified in the initial search, 4 studies were processed for data extraction. Three studies were randomized clinical trials performed in humans and 1 study was experimental. Results from 2 studies showed that aPDT is effective in the treatment of gingival inflammation in patients undergoing orthodontic therapy (OT). One study showed that oral decontamination can be successfully performed using aPDT among patients undergoing OT. Results of the experimental study showed that aPDT helps in surface decontamination of orthodontic instruments. Conclusion There is insufficient evidence in indexed literature to justify the potential role of aPDT in OT. Hence, further studies are required in this regard.