Validity and Reliability of Polarized vs Non-Polarized Digital Images for Measuring Gingival Melanin Pigmentation

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare the validity and reliability of polarized and non-polarized intraoral photography for the measurement of gingival melanin pigmentation. Materials and Methods: A case series study was conducted on ten patients scheduled for gingival depigmentation. A total of 976 polarized and non-polarized image samples were collected, capturing two rows above the gingival margin, for analysis. These images were taken both before and one year after the depigmentation procedure. Three independent evaluators assessed the photographs (an orthodontist, a general dentist, and a layperson). The Dummett Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI) and Gingival Melanosis Record (GMR) indices were used to measure the level of gingival pigmentation. Results: The study found no significant differences between polarized and non-polarized images taken before and after depigmentation. Both methods of imaging received similar scores from the evaluators. The orthodontist identified more pigmented slides than the layperson and the general dentist. Conclusion: Both polarized and non-polarized photographic methods may be used for assessing gingival pigmentation. However, further research is warranted to confirm this finding and examine additional factors.