Treatment of gingival pigmentation with a 755-nm alexandrite picosecond laser

ABSTRACT

Hyperpigmentation of the gums can be associated to several etiological factors. Although it is physiological in most cases it can cause esthetic concerns in some patients. The objective of our study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction with the treatment of gingival hyperpigmentation with picosecond alexandrite laser of 755 nm. We selected two patients with gingival hyperpigmentation on the anterior face of the upper and lower gums of years of evolution. Malignancy, drug ingestion, exposure to tobacco and underlying genetic and endocrine alterations were ruled out. Clinical photographs were taken before treatment and 2 weeks after the procedure. In both cases, anterior gingival areas were depigmented with satisfaction. The patients did not complain of severe pain or discomfort. Two weeks after the procedure the gingiva showed almost complete depigmentation. In conclusion, the 755-nm alexandrite picosecond laser seems to be safe and effective for the esthetic treatment of gingival hyperpigmentation.

KEYWORDS:

• Laser
• Alexandrite laser
• Picosecond laser
• Pigment laser