Open AccessEsthetic crown lengthening with depigmentation using an 810 nm GaAlAs diode laser
Author(s) -
Amit Agrawal
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
indian journal of dentistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 0975-962X
DOI - 10.4103/0975-962x.144739
Subject(s) - depigmentation , medicine , laser , diode , dentistry , hyperpigmentation , crown (dentistry) , ophthalmology , orthodontics , dermatology , materials science , optoelectronics , optics , physics
Hyperpigmentation of gingiva becomes more pronounced if it is associated with "gummy smile." Correction of gummy smile and depigmentation together are key to complete patient satisfaction. An 810 nm (1.5 W, pulsed) GaAlAs diode laser was used to achieve the desired results in a 22-year-old female patient. The 6-month follow-up results showed excellent color and contour of the gingiva. Mere depigmentation without correcting gummy smile may look cosmetically good but esthetically unacceptable. Diode laser was used as it is known to be an excellent tool as compared with other conventional surgical procedures in terms of patient and operator comfort.