A method is provided for regulating tooth movement, comprising extra-orally administering an effective amount of light transdermally to the maxillary or mandibular alveolar bone of a patient in need thereof. The repetitive dosage can be in the range of 24 J/cm to 200 J/cm. The light can have a wavelength in the range of about 585 nm to about 665 nm, or about 815 nm to about 895 nm. Light having a first wavelength can be administered to a first selected region of the alveolar bone, and light having a second wavelength can be administered to a second selected region of the alveolar bone to selectively regulate tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. An apparatus useful for applying light therapy extra-orally is also provided.
