Clinical Research Directory

Comparison of Er-YAG Laser, Air Polishing, and Surgical Excision for Gingival Hyperpigmentation

This randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to compare the effectiveness of different treatment approaches for physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation. Participants with gingival melanin pigmentation were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: Er:YAG laser treatment, air polishing with erythritol powder, air polishing with sodium bicarbonate powder, or conventional surgical excision. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using pigmentation index scores, digital image analysis, and color measurements at baseline and follow-up visits. Patient-centered outcomes, including postoperative discomfort and satisfaction, were also assessed. The study sought to determine whether air polishing techniques could provide clinical outcomes comparable to conventional treatment approaches while improving patient comfort and satisfaction.