Wound healing evaluation after gingival depigmentation using ceramic soft tissue trimming bur versus diode laser

Abstract

Depigmentation of the gingiva is performed by various techniques like scalpel, bur, laser, and chemicals whereby the hyperpigmentation is removed or reduced. The aim of this procedure is to remove epithelium of the gingiva with a layer of the underlying connective tissue and let the denuded connective tissue heal by secondary intention. The present study was done to evaluate gingival healing using Ceramic soft tissue trimming bur as a new tool for gingival depigmentation in comparison to diode LASER. This study was designed as a randomized split mouth clinical trial, to evaluate clinically wound healing after different depigmentation procedures. The maxillary arch was divided into two segments. These two segments was incorporated into a split-mouth design, Where in one side depigmentation LASER and the other one for ceramic soft tissue trimmer bur. A total of 30 patients who need depigmentation procedures in upper jaw with aesthetic concerns regarding gingival hyperpigmentation was selected randomly. Wound healing was evaluated on the basis of -Healing index given by Landry et al -Visual analogue scale scores. -Epithelization test with toluidine blue The postoperative assessment was done at the same day, 7th day and after 1 month. The results was statistically analyzed and according to them, It can be concluded that, both treatment modalities showed almost complete depigmentation and similar aesthetic results. Ablation and abrasion techniques were good enough to achieve aesthetic satisfaction and fair wound healing without infection or pain. The use of soft tissue trimmer is easy, inexpensive as compared to diode LASER