Therapeutic methods for melanin gingival depigmentation: surgical technique with a scalpel blade, abrasion with a rotary instrument and laser ablation – literature review

Abstract

Melanic hyperpigmentation occurs due to abnormal deposition of melanin in the basal and suprabasal layers of the epithelium, creating a darkened appearance. It is physiological, so it does not represent harm to health, and may be just an aesthetic complaint by the patient. The objective of this work was to carry out a narrative literature review on the use of surgical technique with a scalpel, abrasion with a rotary instrument and laser ablation as methods to remove gingival melanin hyperpigmentation of physiological etiology. Many techniques have been used to perform depigmentation, different results and factors, such as patient comfort, postoperative care and recurrence, have been presented. The surgical technique with a scalpel is considered the gold standard due to its good results, easily accessible material and low cost. Abrasion with rotary instruments does not require any sophisticated equipment or material, is relatively simple and safe. And laser therapy is an effective treatment modality, minimally invasive, with comfortable trans and postoperative. However, more studies are needed on the use of abrasion with a rotary instrument to monitor patients in the long term and research that describe the use and results provided by the different types of high-power lasers. In view of the present literature review, it can be concluded that repigmentation does not occur for an average of one to two years. However, further studies are needed to specify wich technique has the lowest rate of repigmentation.

Keywords: equipament and provisions; hyperpigmentation; methods; removal.