top of page

Photobiomodulation Laser therapy
Gentle Laser Therapy to Support Jaw, Muscle & Facial Pain Relief

Photobiomodulation, also known as low-level laser therapy, uses targeted red and near-infrared light to support healing, reduce inflammation, and calm irritated muscles and tissues. At Colorado TMJ & Facial Pain, laser therapy may be used as part of a conservative treatment plan for TMJ disorders, facial pain, jaw tension, muscle tenderness, and nerve-related sensitivity.

This non-invasive treatment does not involve injections, medication, or surgery and is often combined with other therapies such as oral appliances, physical therapy, trigger point injections, or therapeutic Botox when appropriate.

What Is Photobiomodulation?

Photobiomodulation is a light-based therapy that uses specific wavelengths of laser energy to stimulate cellular activity and support tissue healing. In TMJ and orofacial pain care, it may help reduce pain, improve circulation, calm inflammation, and support muscle recovery.

Research suggests low-level laser therapy may help reduce TMD-related pain and improve jaw function, although protocols and individual response can vary. 

​

Conditions Laser Therapy May Help Support

Photobiomodulation may be considered for patients with:

  • TMJ joint pain

  • Jaw muscle tenderness

  • Facial pain

  • Myofascial pain

  • Trigger point sensitivity

  • Jaw stiffness or limited opening

  • Neck and temple tension related to jaw dysfunction

  • Post-procedure soreness

  • Inflammation around the jaw joint

  • Nerve-related burning, tingling, or sensitivity

​

Benefits of Photobiomodulation Laser Therapy

  • Non-invasive and gentle

  • No needles or medication required

  • Usually well tolerated

  • Can be used alongside other TMJ treatments

  • May help reduce inflammation and muscle tenderness

  • May support improved jaw comfort and mobility

  • Helpful for patients who prefer conservative treatment options

How It Fits Into TMJ & Orofacial Pain Treatment

Laser therapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. At Colorado TMJ & Facial Pain, Dr. Sami evaluates the source of pain first — joint, muscle, nerve, bite-related, sleep-related, or a combination — and determines whether photobiomodulation is appropriate.

​

It may be used alone for mild cases or as part of a larger plan with:

  • Custom TMJ appliances

  • Trigger point injections

  • Therapeutic Botox

  • Physical therapy

  • Home sleep testing

  • Behavioral and habit modification

  • Anti-inflammatory strategies

With patient.png

Why Choose Colorado TMJ & Facial Pain?

TMJ and facial pain are complex and often involve more than one system. As a Board-Certified Orofacial Pain Specialist, Dr. Sami evaluates the jaw joints, facial muscles, nerves, headaches, bite, sleep, and contributing habits before recommending treatment.

Photobiomodulation is used thoughtfully as part of a diagnosis-based treatment plan — not as a generic “laser for everything.”

Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Photobiomodulation Laser Therapy

Is photobiomodulation painful?

No. Treatment is generally comfortable and non-invasive.​

​

Is it the same as surgical laser treatment?

No. Photobiomodulation is low-level laser therapy. It does not cut tissue or remove tissue.​

​

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your diagnosis, pain severity, and response to treatment. Some patients benefit from a series of visits.​

​

Can laser therapy help TMJ pain?

It may help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tenderness in some patients with TMD, especially when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.​

​

Can it replace Botox, injections, or appliances?

Not always. Laser therapy is supportive. Some patients need appliance therapy, physical therapy, trigger point injections, Botox, or additional evaluation depending on the source of pain.​

​

Is it safe?

Photobiomodulation is generally considered gentle and well tolerated when used appropriately. Protective eyewear is typically used during treatment.​

​

Photobiomodulation Laser Therapy for TMJ & Jaw Pain

Photobiomodulation laser therapy uses targeted light energy to support healing, reduce inflammation, and calm irritated muscles and tissues. This non-invasive therapy may help patients experiencing TMJ pain, jaw tension, facial muscle soreness, trigger point sensitivity, and inflammation related to temporomandibular disorders.

bottom of page