High-power diode laser on management of drug-induced gingival overgrowth: Report of two cases and long-term follow-up.

BACKGROUND

Drug-induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO) is attributed mainly to the prolonged use of calcium channel blocking agents, anticonvulsants, and anti-calcineurin inhibitors . The management of DIGO depends on the severity of the disease and includes surgical intervention and plaque control. Compared to conventional surgical treatment, the recent literature data have shown that gingivectomy using a high-power laser (HPL) is a short and easy procedure, which results in minimal postoperative discomfort and greater patient accep- tance.

OBJECTIVE AND

METHODS

The purpose of this study was to report two cases of recurrent DIGO treated surgically using HPL (λ 808nm, 1.5W).

RESULTS

Minimal bleeding and discomfort were observed during surgery, and patients reported no pain or bleeding after the procedure. After 1 year of follow-up, patients presented a minimal increase of gingival volume, indicating that laser technology can improve the efficiency and prognosis of DIGO.

CONCLUSIONS

The HPL was able to preventing hemorrhage and improving the patient's collaboration with the treatment and quality of life.