“Comparative Evaluation of Gingival Depigmentation By Scalpel And Microneedling With Ascorbic Acid”

Background: Gingival pigmentation, characterized by the presence of melanin in the gingival tissues, is a common aesthetic concern in dental practice. While it poses no inherent health risks, the visible discoloration may cause psychological distress for individuals seeking optimal dental aesthetics. Understanding the efficacy of various methods is essential for refining treatment strategies and enhancing patient satisfaction in the realm of gingival depigmentation.

Aim: The objective of the study is to compare the effectiveness of scalpel and microneedling with ascorbic acid in the treatment of gingival depigmentation.

Materials and Methods: Sixteen patients who had a complaint of gingival pigmentation were included in the study, out of which 8 patients were allocated for scalpel group and the other 8 patients were treated with microneedling technique with ascorbic acid. Postoperative wound healing scores were evaluated at the 1st and 7th day respectively. Intensity of depigmentation was assessed at baseline, 1st month and at the end of 3rd month respectively.

Results: The mean DOPI score in the baseline were 2.65±0.16 and 2.61± 0.17 in the surgical and MN with ascorbic acid groups respectively. The mean DOPI score at the end of 3rd month was 1.67 ±0.39 and 0.87± 0.17 in the surgical and MN with ascorbic acid groups respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the scalpel and MN & ascorbic acid groups at the end of 1st month and 3rd month respectively with MN & ascorbic acid showing esthetically pleasing outcomes. Patients treated with scalpel technique showed incomplete healing and ulceration on 1st and 7th day after the procedure when compared to the microneedling technique with ascorbic acid. Healing index scores were statistically significant in the MN & ascorbic acid group.

Conclusion: Microneedling technique with ascorbic acid is a successful technique in treating gingival depigmentation. It showed esthetically gratifying outcomes when compared to the conventional surgical technique.