Photobiomodulation in clinical practice: knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of Australian dental practitioners

Background Photobiomodulation, formerly known as low-level laser therapy, was discovered in 1967 and has since gained recognition as an evidence-based therapeutic modality in dentistry. Despite growing evidence supporting its clinical benefits, the routine use of photobiomodulation in Australian dental practice remains limited. Objective To assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours regarding photobiomodulation among Australian general dentists, dental specialists, oral health therapists and dental hygienists. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted online among 360 dental practitioners in Australia between 14 November and 14 December 2024. Participants were recruited using a snowball sampling method. A 15-item structured questionnaire assessed participants’ knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and clinical use of photobiomodulation. Descriptive statistics were conducted, followed by Chi-square tests, with significant associations further analysed using binary logistic regression ( p < 0.05). Results Of the 360 respondents, 62.2% ( n = 224) had previously heard of photobiomodulation/ low-level laser therapy, while 37.8% ( n = 136) had not. In terms of self-reported knowledge, 41.9% reported no knowledge, 45.2% limited knowledge, 11.9% moderate knowledge, and only 0.8% expert knowledge. Most participants (78.3%) were unaware of the Australian Dental Association Item Code 945 for photobiomodulation. Furthermore, approximately two-thirds reported being unsure of its clinical outcomes, including soft tissue analgesia (67.8%), pulpal analgesia (75.8%), reversal of anaesthesia (86.7%), and reduction of post-operative pain (62.8%). Only 4.7% ( n = 17) reported implementing photobiomodulation in clinical practice, although 90.1% ( n = 309) expressed interest in learning more about this modality. Conclusion Photobiomodulation is poorly adopted in routine dental practice in Australia. Increased access to continuing professional development and more affordable devices may improve clinician knowledge and support wider clinical implementation.