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"Laser assisted gingival melanin depigmentation using diode 450 nm; ablative vs. non-ablative techniques: randomized
Walid Altayeb1,2, Kenneth Luk3, Josep Arnabat-Dominguez4
1Master Laser Dentistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy. walidaltayeb@aydin.edu.tr.
Lasers in Medical Science
|December 3, 2025
Summary
Laser treatments effectively reduce gingival pigmentation. Ablative diode lasers offer immediate results with less re-pigmentation but more discomfort, while non-ablative lasers provide greater comfort but require more sessions.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Laser Dentistry
Background:
- Gingival pigmentation is a common aesthetic concern impacting smile appearance.
- Laser-assisted depigmentation is an effective treatment option for removing excess melanin from the gums.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy, patient comfort, and post-operative outcomes of ablative versus non-ablative 450 nm diode laser treatments for gingival depigmentation.
Main Methods:
- A split-mouth, single-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 20 subjects with significant gingival pigmentation.
- One side of each subject's mouth received ablative laser treatment, the other received non-ablative treatment.
- Outcomes measured included Oral Pigmentation Index (OPI) and Melanin Pigmentation Index (MPI) scores, along with patient-reported pain.
Main Results:
- Both ablative and non-ablative diode lasers significantly reduced OPI and MPI scores at 1, 6, and 12 months.
- Ablative treatment achieved immediate depigmentation with lower re-pigmentation rates but higher intraoperative discomfort.
- Non-ablative treatment resulted in less pain but required multiple sessions for optimal results.
Conclusions:
- Both ablative and non-ablative 450 nm diode lasers are effective for gingival depigmentation.
- The choice between ablative and non-ablative techniques should be individualized based on patient preference for comfort versus immediate results and clinician expertise.
- Non-ablative lasers are suitable for patients prioritizing comfort, while ablative lasers suit those seeking single-session complete pigment removal.
