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