Purpose This systematic review explored the use of photobiomodulation (PBM) to achieve analgesia, reduce dental pain, and reverse the effects of local anesthetic (LA) agents, without injuring soft tissues through thermal effects.

Methods Electronic searches were undertaken in PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and SPIE digital databases, according to PRISMA guidelines, focusing on PBM analgesic effects, LA reversal, and thermal changes. A snowball sampling technique was then used from included studies, to capture all relevant studies in the past 10 years. A quality assessment was undertaken using Cochrane Collaboration methodology.

Results A total of 17 studies met the inclusion criteria, including 15 randomized controlled trials and 3 ex-vivo studies. Based on methodological quality, 11 were rated "excellent" and 6 as "good". The included publications consistently reported positive results regarding PBM induced analgesia and LA reversal, with a lack of adverse thermal effects.

Conclusion There is evidence supporting PBM-induced analgesia in dentistry. Future clinical research should explore the impact of variables such as pulsing modes and contact versus non-contact applications, to further enhance the effectiveness of these PBM applications.