Objective: 

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a major complication associated with long-term use of bisphosphonates. Clinical signs and symptoms commonly reported include pain, swelling, the presence of pus, loose teeth, ill-fitting dentures, and paresthesias of the inferior alveolar nerve when affects the mandible. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with diode laser has been reported for biostimulation in the treatment of paresthesia. This paper reports the effects of LLLT in patients with nerve impairment following after therapy of bisphosphonates.

Methods: 

We presented LLLT with diode laser to a 65-year-old woman with ONJ, who was treated with zoledronic acid for multiple bone metastasis after she had been diagnosed as multiple myeloma 7 years ago. Her complaints were paresthesia in her right lower lip. According to the intraoral and radiographic examinations and symptoms of the patient, ONJ was described as Stage 0 which includes patients exposed to bisphosphonate and who is present with non-specific symptoms or without clinical and radiographic abnormalities.

Results: 

In addition to antibiotheraphy LLLT with diode laser was applied two times a week for six months. Parestesia was completely healed. She had no signs or symptoms of ONJ since then.

Conclusions: 

LLLT seemed to be effective in reducing nerve impairment following the treatment of bisphosphonates.