Microneedling - A Novel Cosmetic Therapeutic Approach for Management of Gingival Hyperpigmentation and Review of Literature

Abstract

Abstract A beautiful smile boosts an individual’s self-confidence. The harmony of a smile depends on the shape, colour, and position of teeth, as well as the gingival tissue. Excessive gingival pigmentation is a major aesthetic concern for many people. Gingival hyperpigmentation is usually caused by an abnormal accumulation of melanin in the gingival tissue, which gives the gingiva a dark appearance. A variety of different modalities have been proposed for removing hyperpigmentation like Scalpel technique, LASER, Radiotherapy, Electrocautery, Bur abrasion, Chemical methods etc. Though the initial results of depigmentation procedures are promising, repigmentation is a common problem associated with them which poses a financial burden to the patient. To overcome this hurdle, a promising novel technique which is in vogue in cosmetic dermatology is Microneedling. Microneedling is a minimally invasive, cost effective, simple procedure that creates microholes to facilitate the penetration of topical medications across the connective tissues. The procedure activates the natural healing process, promoting the regeneration of epithelial cells and the breakdown of clusters of melanin pigment. This article gives an insight regarding microneedling technique and also discusses in depth regarding melanin synthesis, classification, indices, etiology, gingival depigmentation procedures, and repigmentation.