| ORIGINAL ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2014 | Volume
: 4
| Issue : 3 | Page : 135-139 |
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A comparative evaluation of management of melanin pigmented gingiva using a scalpel and laser
Ambika Bhardwaj, Ashita Sadananda Uppoor, Dilip G Naik
Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal University, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
Correspondence Address:
Ashita Sadananda Uppoor
Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal University, Mangalore, Karnataka
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
DOI: 10.4103/2229-5194.147332
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Objective: There are only a few case reports in the literature evaluating the effects of the diode laser on gingival melanin pigmentation. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of melanin depigmentation using a scalpel and diode lasers based on effective removal of gingival pigmentation, recurrence, and patient acceptability. Study Design: Gingival melanin pigmentation at the anterior maxillary or mandibular gingiva at 20 sites from 7 patients was included. Pigmented areas were measured on pre-and post-operative 1 and 6 months using Dummett Oral Pigmentation Index. This was a split mouth study where gingival depigmentation was carried out using a scalpel and diode laser. For one quadrant scalpel techniques were used and for other quadrant laser ablation was done. Results: Ablation of the hyperpigmented gingiva was accomplished with minimal carbonization and almost no bleeding. Postoperative healing was uneventful with no significant postoperative pain. Statistical analysis of the data revealed a significant difference between pre- and post-operative measurements of pigmented area. No significant changes in pigmentation were seen between 1 and 6 months follow-up with both the procedures. Conclusion: Application of diode laser appears to be an effective and safe method for the elimination of gingival melanin pigmentation.
Clinical Relevance To Interdisciplinary Dentistry
- Esthetics plays an important role in treatment planning
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