Comparison of Diode Laser and Conventional Method in Treatment of Gingival Melanin Hyperpigmentation

Abstract

Purpose: The goal of this study is to compare the scalpel and diode laser methods for treating gingival hyperpigmentation in terms of postoperative discomfort and wound healing. Materials & Methods: Sixteen systemically healthy individuals diagnosed with light or moderate gingival hyperpigmentation were enrolled for this study. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: scalpel or laser. Dummett’s oral pigmentation index was recorded at baseline. Early wound healing and post-operative discomfort were evaluated on the 7th day by using the VAS form. Comparisons between the groups were tested using the Mann-Whitney U test and P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Total epithelization was observed in the laser group, whereas the epithelization was incomplete in the scalpel group at the end of the observation period. The pain perception on the first two days after the surgery was significantly higher in the scalpel group than in the laser group. (p=0,002 and p=0,038, respectively). No significant differences were found between the fourth- and seventh-day when surgical techniques were compared regarding pain perception (p>0,05). Similarly, pain perceptions of female and male individuals showed no significant difference (p>0,05). Conclusion: In the treatment of gingival hyperpigmentation, both surgical techniques were clinically successful. Although the treatment process was long, according to the results of our study, the laser technique is superior to the scalpel method in terms of patient comfort. The choice of the method may vary depending on the available equipment and the clinician’s preference or request of the patient.