Labial frenectomy with Nd:YAG laser and conventional surgery: a comparative study

Abstract

Labial frenulums are sagittal fibrous folds of oral mucosa with a periosteal insertion that extend from the lips to the alveolar or gingival mucosa. Occasionally, they assume inadequate size or location and may lead to functional and esthetic limitations. The aim of the present study was to compare pre-, trans-, and postsurgical clinical parameters of labial frenectomies performed with conventional surgery and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. Forty individuals were assessed as a convenience sample and were divided into two groups according to the treatment: group 1 (G1), conventional surgery (n = 22), and G2, Nd:YAG laser surgery (n = 18). Clinical parameters such as frenulum insertion, location, bleeding, surgical time, suturing, preoperative fear, and postoperative discomfort/functional limitations were evaluated. All surgeries were performed by the same operator, and the level of fear, pain, and discomfort related to oral functions were assessed with a visual numeric scale. Most of the frenulums (90%) were classified as papillary or transpapillary insertion. Preoperative fear was similar between groups (p = 0.593). All G2 patients did not require suture (p < 0.001), did not bleed during the procedure (p < 0.001), and had surgical time diminished (p < 0.001). No significant statistical difference regarding pain or oral function could be observed. Three individuals (7.5%) experienced postsurgical complications. Nd:YAG laser frenectomies reduces transoperative bleeding, avoiding the need of suturing, and promotes a significant reduction of surgical time in comparison with conventional surgery. Therefore, further studies are necessary to provide a complete understanding and standardization of the technique as well as the expected clinical results.