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Treatment of an amalgam tattoo with a Q-switched alexandrite (755 nm) laser
1Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, Washington, DC, USA.
Background:
Amalgam tattoos result from deposition of metallic particles (eg, silver, mercury, copper, zinc, and tin) into the oral mucosa. Their clinical and histologic appearance is similar to that of decorative tattoos.
Objective:
To describe the successful use of a Q-switched alexandrite laser for removal of an amalgam tattoo.
Materials And Methods:
An amalgam tattoo on the buccal mucosa and gingiva was treated with a QS 755 nm alexandrite laser. Three treatments were delivered at 8-week time intervals (average fluence = 6.8 J/cm2).
Results:
Significant lightening of the tattoo was achieved after each of the three treatments without adverse sequelae.
Conclusion:
Q-switched alexandrite laser irradiation can safely and effectively eradicate amalgam tattoos.
