Gingival Depigmentation: Case Series for Four Different Techniques

Gingival melanin pigmentation occurs in all races in variable amount caused by melanin granules. The degree of pigmentation varies from person to person. Excessive gingival pigmentation may be a major esthetic concern for many patients. Methods of deepithelialization of the pigmented or discolored areas of gingiva using different methods such as scalpel method, bur method or laser method are well documented. The procedure for all three techniques has been described and evaluated here. Following presentation encloses a case series in which depigmentation of upper anterior gingival was carried out. The case presented with moderate to severe pigmented gingival (DOPI score ≥ 3) which were treated with one of the above mentioned techniques. The results of these cases suggested that ablation of the gingiva by a Diode laser, abrasion with a scalpel or rotary round bur is good enough to achieve esthetic satisfaction and fair wound healing without infection or severe pain.