Comparison of Two Different Techniques to Achieve Gingival Depigmentation: A Case Series With 6-months Follow-up

Abstract

Background: Melanin pigmentation of the gingiva produces an unpleasant and unesthetic appearance to an individual especially if they have excessive gingival display. The present study aims to compare the two different depigmentation techniques to achieve gingival depigmentation. Materials and methods: A total number of 10 patients with 56 sites for depigmentation were recruited for the study. The patients were equally divided into groups, i.e., group I scalpel treatment and group II laser treatment. The gingival pigmentation was analysed using Dummett’s Oral Pigmentation score before and after the treatment. Additionally, the clinical parameters such as gingival index (GI) and plaque index (PI) were assessed. The above-mentioned parameters were assessed at the baseline, 3-months and 6-months post-operative period. Also, to evaluate the post-operative discomfort, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was also employed. Result: In both groups, a statistically significant difference in pigmentation score was observed. Furthermore, group II displayed a lower VAS score and a decrease in post-operative pain, including bleeding, redness, and burning. Following both operations, no discernible changes in pigmentation were observed between the three and six-month follow-up. Conclusion: Both, the scalpel and laser depigmentation techniques offer better clinical outcomes in terms of reduction in pigmentation. Laser technique offers improved post-operative comfort for the patients. Keywords: Depigmentation, Diode Laser, Melanin pigments, Scalpel