The gingival complex plays a vital role in the overall esthetics of a smile. Melanin, a brown pigment, is the most
common natural pigment contributing to endogenous pigmentation of the gingiva. For depigmentation of gingiva different
treatment modalities have been reported like bur abrasion, scraping, partial thickness flap, cryotherapy, electrosurgery and laser
but repigmentation of the melanin pigment after surgical procedure is noted and considered in a high percentage. The present
article describes and discusses one case of gingival melanin pigmentation, a 23-year-old female, who is medically fit and free
of any systemic condition, complaining of dark pigmented gingivae. The CO2 laser device (OpusDuo Aqualite EC Lumens
group of companies Germany) was used for treatment delivered in the present case. The clinical view 6 months after the
treatment shows healthy gingival color. Conclusion: Treatment of hyperpigmentation by CO2 laser radiation in a defocused
mode was found to be a safe, effective procedure and easy to perform. Postoperative patient satisfaction in term of esthetics
and pain was excellent. The gingivae healed uneventfully and completely regenerated with no infection or scarring. No
repigmentation occurred after 6 months period. Based on these observations, CO2 laser is a good treatment choice for gingival
depigmentation. |
