ABSTRACT
Introduction: Diode laser irradiation has recently shown promising results for treatment of gingival pigmentation. This study sought to compare the efficacy of 2 diode laser irradiation protocols for treatment of gingival pigmentations, namely the conventional method and the sieve method
Methods: In this split-mouth clinical trial, 15 patients with gingival pigmentation were selected and their pigmentation intensity was determined using Dummett's oral pigmentation index [DOPI] in different dental regions. Diode laser [980 nm wavelength and 2 W power] was irradiated through a stipple pattern [sieve method] and conventionally in the other side of the mouth. Level of pain and satisfaction with the outcome [both patient and periodontist] were measured using a 0-10 visual analog scale [VAS] for both methods. Patients were followed up at 2 weeks, one month and 3 months. Pigmentation levels were compared using repeated measures of analysis of variance [ANOVA]. The difference in level of pain and satisfaction between the 2 groups was analyzed by sample t test and general estimate equation model
Results: No significant differences were found regarding the reduction of pigmentation scores and pain and scores between the 2 groups. The difference in satisfaction with the results at the three time points was significant in both conventional and sieve methods in patients [P = 0.001] and periodontists [P = 0.015]
Conclusion: Diode laser irradiation in both methods successfully eliminated gingival pigmentations. The sieve method was comparable to conventional technique, offering no additional advantage
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this case report is to analyze the results of vestibuleplasty around an over-denture based on dental implants to determine the evidence on the effectiveness of laser-assisted surgery and soft tissue management in implant dentistry. The patient in this case report was a 57 year- old male who was completely edentulous, with a mandibular over denture based on 4 standard implants suffering from pain on chewing, and a general discomfort, especially in anterior segment. He received a standard gingival augmentation surgery which failed to create sufficient vestibular depth. A laser-assisted vestibuloplasty was done to make the environment suitable for making a new overdenture. There were clinically significant improvements in vestibular depth and peri implant soft tissue situation by laser. Also, bleeding during surgery was well controlled; the patient's discomfort and pain were less than the first operation done with gingival graft. Based on our clinical data and review of the literature, an evidence-based approach to the use of lasers for the management of soft tissue in oral surgery is necessary. Simply, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that any specific wavelength of laser is superior to the traditional modalities of therapy. However, improved hemostasis and patient's satisfaction can be considered as advantages of adjunctive laser therapy in some clinical situations like vestibuloplasty