Laser-assisted Management for Orthodontic Treatment-induced Gingival Enlargement: A Case Series

Abstract

Different ways can be used to remove tissue during gingivectomy and generate a good gingival margin; the most common is the traditional gingivectomy, which is performed with a scalpel; however, laser technology is becoming more commonly available and can be utilized to perform procedures. Hence, this case series emphasize the importance of laser treatment in cases of gingival overgrowth seen due to ongoing orthodontic treatment. In this case series, three clinical reports are discussed in detail, comparing the efficiency of scalpel and diode laser therapy for treating gingival overgrowth and patient perception of the need of taking pain killer after the surgery and the presence of discomfort during eating and speech. Based on them, it can be concluded that diode laser gingivectomy can be a valuable tool for achieving faster and greater improvements in gingival health, implying its usefulness for orthodontic patients with gingival overgrowth, particularly when oral hygiene is insufficient to achieve normal healthy gums. For many years, scalpels were been used in performing gingivectomy and there is a dilemma whether to use scalpel or laser for gingivectomy procedures. The dilemma of the clinician was resolved confirming that laser therapy offers many more advantages for the gingivectomy procedure along with added benefits of lasers to reduce patient discomfort and accelerate healing.