Evaluation of patient perceptions after labial frenectomy procedure: A comparison of diode laser and scalpel techniques

Abstract

Abstract Background: Frenectomy is the complete excision of the frenum along with its attachment to the underlying bone. It can be done by conventional technique, electrosurgery or soft tissue lasers. Aim: To evaluate the effects of diode laser and scalpel technique on degree of post-operative pain and discomfort experienced by patients on the 1st, 3rd and the 7th post-operative days after frenectomy. Materials and Methods: Ten patients who required frenectomy were randomly assigned to undergo treatment with diode laser or scalpel. The data were analyzed with paired t-test and intragroup comparison was determined by ANOVA. Results: Intergroup comparison of the mean VAS scores for discomfort and pain for both the groups showed significant difference. The VAS scores of pain and discomfort within scalpel group between 1st and 3rd day did not show any significant difference, however between 7th day versus 3rd and 1st day difference was highly significant. The VAS scores of pain and discomfort within laser group between all the days showed significant difference. Conclusion: Taking into consideration the clinical outcome, the diode laser is a dependable alternative as it is an efficient and satisfactory option for procedures like frenectomy.