International Journal of Dentistry Research 2026; 11(2): 50-55 ;   DOI:10.31254/dentistry.2026.11207

Research Article

Comparative Evaluation of Clinical Outcome to Gingival Depigmentation Using Diode Laser Ablation and Vitamin C Mesotherapy

Malasa H Pai¹ , Nagarathna DV² , Riolla Sanchia Dsouza¹ , Sujay J¹

Malasa H Pai,Nagarathna DV,Riolla Sanchia Dsouza,Sujay J

1. Post graduate, Department of Periodontology and Implantology, A J Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangaluru- 575004, Karnataka, India
2. Professor, Department of Periodontology and Implantology A J Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangaluru- 575004, Karnataka, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 14th June, 2026 / Accepted: 8th August, 2026 / Published : 31st August, 2026

Abstract

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Background: Gingival hyperpigmentation is a common aesthetic concern. Although diode laser and injectable vitamin C are used for depigmentation, comparative clinical evidence is limited. Objective: This present study was aimed at a comparative evaluation of the clinical outcome of gingival depigmentation using diode laser and Vitamin C mesotherapy. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six systemically healthy participants with gingival hyperpigmentation were randomly assigned to a diode laser group (n = 13) or a vitamin C group (n = 13). Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Dummett–Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI) and Gingival Pigmentation Index (GPI) at baseline, 1, 2, and 3 months. Pigmented area reduction was measured using ImageJ software at baseline and 3 months. Postoperative pain (VAS), color improvement, and patient satisfaction were also evaluated. Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in DOPI and GPI scores from baseline to 3 months (p < 0.01). The laser group demonstrated significantly greater improvement at 1 month (p < 0.01), with no significant intergroup differences at 2 or 3 months. Pigmented area was significantly reduced in both groups, with greater reduction in the vitamin C group (p < 0.01). The laser group reported higher immediate postoperative pain (p < 0.01), whereas patient satisfaction was significantly greater with vitamin C therapy (p < 0.01). Color improvement was comparable between groups. Conclusion: Both diode laser and injectable vitamin C are effective for gingival depigmentation. Laser therapy provides faster initial clinical improvement, whereas injectable vitamin C offers superior patient comfort and satisfaction, making it a promising minimally invasive alternative.

Keywords

Gingival Hyperpigmentation, Gingival Depigmentation; Diode Laser, Vitamin C Mesotherapy, Gingival Pigmentation Index, Patient Satisfaction

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