European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: Melanin is the pigment that is responsible for the hyperpigmentation of skin and gingival tissues. This can result in significant amount of esthetic dilemma and affect the smile line which forms integral part of oro-facial esthetics. Numerous cosmetic modalities have been used for correction of hyperpigmentation. However, repigmentation can be seen few months following surgery. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare three techniques of scalpel, electrosurgery and diode laser therapy for management of gingival hyperpigmentation for repigmentation and comparing pain intensity using the visual analogue scale (VAS). Materials and methods: Thirty subjects with gingival pigmentation were categorized into Group 1: Depigmentation performed using Scalpel surgery method; Group II: Depigmentation by using electro-surgical method and Group III: Depigmentation procedure using Laser therapy. Results: Treated subjects were observed at baseline, at first month and six months post-operative period for repigmentation occurrence and intensity of pain score immediately following surgery and after twenty four hours. All observations were entered in Microsoft Excel 2007 work sheet. Mean and standard deviations were calculated and inter-group comparisons were made using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) tool. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. All methods demonstrated lack of repigmentation after six months follow-up and almost similar VAS score significance (P<0.05 for electrosurgical and laser technique and >0.05 for scalpel technique. Conclusion: Since comparable results were demonstrated in this study, it is choice of clinician and patient selection based on which appropriate technique can be selected.