Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Master's student, Department of Oral Medicine, Periodontology & Oral Diagnosis, Faculty of Dentistry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt MSc in Laser Applications in Medical Sciences, Higher Institute for Laser Research and
2
Lecturer of Periodontology , Oral Medicine, Dental Radiology and Diagnosis
3
Associate Professor ,Oral Medicine, Periodontology and Oral Diagnosis Faculty of Dentistry Horus University-Egypt
4
Associate Professor Oral Medicine and periodontology Department Ain Shams University
Abstract
Abstract
Background:
Gingival hyperpigmentation, though physiologic, can create esthetic concerns, particularly in patients with a high smile line. Lasers are widely accepted as an effective and minimally invasive alternative to conventional depigmentation methods. Among these, Erbium-YAG (2940 nm) and Diode (980 nm) lasers have shown promising results, each with distinct clinical characteristics. This study aimed to assess patient centered outcomes and compare their effectiveness in gingival depigmentation using a split-mouth approach.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 14 healthy adults with bilateral gingival pigmentation were enrolled. Each patient underwent treatment with Erbium-YAG laser on the right side (2940 nm, pulsed mode, 120 m J, 1.8 W, 15 Hz) using water-air cooling and Diode laser on the left side (980 nm, continuous mode, 1 W) without cooling. Clinical parameters evaluated included pain perception, intraoperative bleeding, healing, pigmentation recurrence, and patient preference at 1 and 3 months postoperatively.
Results. Pain scores were statistically lower with Erbium-YAG compared to diode (p = 0.0002), whereas bleeding was significantly reduced with diode laser (p = 0.0001). Both lasers showed a statistically significant improvement in DOPI over time (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between groups. Healing was generally uneventful in both groups, with complete recovery within 7–10 days. Mild recurrence (first degree) was noted in three smokers during follow-up.
Conclusion: Both Erbium- YAG and Diode lasers are effective for gingival depigmentation. Erbium-YAG offers better patient comfort, whereas the Diode laser provides easier handling and favorable esthetics.
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