Gingival Depigmentation Using Lasers: A Literature Review

Background: Gingival hyperpigmentation usually occurs due to the abnormal accumulation of melanin in the gingival tissue and confers a dark appearance to the gingiva. Gingival hyperpigmentation often compromises smile esthetics and can occur due to several physiological disorders. Several treatment options are available for this condition; however, laser seems to be the most reliable and satisfactory treatment modality in this regard.

Aim: This study reviews the outcome of laser treatment of gingival hyperpigmentation in terms of response to treatment and recurrence.

Study Design: Review.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of periodontics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Dental School, between March 2015 and July 2015.

Methodology: An electronic search of the literature was carried out in PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases for relevant articles published from January 2000 to June 2015 using the key words “gingiva”, “pigmentation”, “hyperpigmentation”, “repigmentation”, “therapy”, “depigmentation”, “melanin pigmentation”, “diode laser”, “Er:YAG”, “Nd:YAG” and “laser therapy”. A total of 11 articles met the criteria and their full texts were thoroughly reviewed.

Results: Studies showed no pain, bleeding or sign of impaired wound healing following laser treatment. The results were satisfactory in all studies and recurrence during the follow up period was not reported.

Conclusion: Laser therapy has optimal efficacy for treatment of gingival hyperpigmentation with low recurrence rate.