Comparative evaluation of gingival depigmentation using a surgical blade and a diode laser

Abstract

Aim: A comparative evaluation of the gingival depigmentation by using a surgical blade and a diode laser; 6 months follow-up. Materials and Methods: Four systemically healthy patients who were aged 21-28 years were selected for the study and were treated with different gingival depigmentation techniques. Diode laser and surgical blade was used for the depigmentation in either of the arches. Pain levels were assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) during the surgery, 1 day, 3 days and 1 week postoperatively. The recurrence of pigmentation was assessed with melanin pigmentation index (MPI). Results: The gingiva appeared pink and healthy after both the procedures and there was no recurrence of pigmentation. The clinical results obtained with the diode laser were esthetically pleasing with great patient comfort and satisfaction compared to the surgical blade. There was a statistically significant difference between the levels of pain during the procedure and 3 rd postoperative day between the two groups. Conversely there was no difference in the levels of pain 24 hours postoperatively and 1 week postoperatively among the two groups. Conclusion: The laser approach resulted in not as much of bleeding and pain as with scalpel technique. Although no difference in effectiveness and esthetic outcome were found between the two approaches, further well-conducted randomized trials would assist to make the absolute conclusion.