The Use of Scalpel and Electrosurgery Technique In Gingival Depigmentation: A Comparison Case Report

Abstract

Community awareness of esthetics and health increases the demand for esthetic dental treatments. Patients often complain of gingival pigmentation because it affects their appearance. Gingival pigmentation is treated with depigmentation. Several depigmentation techniques include chemicals, surgeries (gingival abrasion, scalpel technique), electrosurgery, and lasers. This case report aims to present depigmentation results using the scalpel technique and electrosurgery. Case: A 23-year-old woman reported to Prof. Soedomo Oral and Dental Hospital with a complaint of blackish upper and lower front side of her gingiva which caused a lack of self-confidence. Clinical findings found diffused broken black spots on the upper and lower labial gingiva from anterior to posterior. A scalpel depigmentation technique was carried out on the maxillary gingiva, followed by antibiotics, analgesics, mouthwash, and a 1-month evaluation. Electrosurgical depigmentation was carried out on the next visit to the mandibular gingiva, followed by antibiotics, analgesics, and mouthwash. Evaluation of scalpel depigmentation conducted one month after treatment found pain (-), pigmentation (-), pink coral gingiva, similar to surrounding tissues. Evaluation of electrosurgical depigmentation ten days after treatment found pain (-), pigmentation (-), and some redness in the surgical area, indicating the wound healing process. Gingival depigmentation using the scalpel and electrosurgery techniques produced an excellent gingival healing process. Therefore, these techniques can be used as healthier and esthetic gingiva alternatives.