ABSTRACT
Purpose
To compare knowledge and interest of speech therapists specialized in Orofacial Motricity regarding the use of low-level laser before and after approval of resolution No. 541 by the Brazilian Federal Speech Language Pathology and Audiology Council (CFFa).
Methods
Cross-sectional observational and quantitative study of comparative character consisting of two distinct moments: first data collection performed in 2016, before approval of the resolution; and second, collection performed in 2020, after publication of the regulation. The first sample consisted of 25 participants and the second of 49, with the entire sample consisting of specialists in Orofacial Motricity. The collection instrument was an online Google Form consisting of questions on the profile of the speech therapist, knowledge, interests, and applicability of photobiomodulation with low-level laser. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results
In both moments, the significant majority of professionals indicated knowing what is photobiomodulation, agreed that the Orofacial Motricity specialist can act with the technique and indicated temporomandibular dysfunction and facial paralysis as main applications. Statistically significant differences were found between the results obtained before and after the publication of the resolution, with a significant increase in access to bibliography, training, knowledge of biosafety standards, access to the low-level laser apparatus and use in clinical practice.
Conclusion
Change in the professional profile regarding the use of photobiomodulation was verified, with increased knowledge, interest, and applicability by Orofacial Motricity specialists after publication of the normative resolution.
Keywords:
Speech, language and hearing sciences; Speech therapy; Lasers; Laser therapy; Low-level light therapy