Depigmentation procedure by scrapping technique for management of gingival hyperpigmentation: Case report

Background: Currently, periodontal treatments for esthetic purposes are increasing. This treatment could be done by periodontal plastic surgery. One of the procedures of periodontal plastic surgery is gingival depigmentation. Gingival depigmentation is the treatment for gingival discoloration. Gingival discoloration occurs due to the hyper-deposition of melanin by melanocytes on the basal gingival epithelium. This condition causes a dark color of the gingiva. The purpose of this case report is to explain the management of gingival discoloration. Cases: A 22-year-old male patient with chief complaints of darkish gingival color and less confidence in smiling. The patient is not a smoker. Case management: Anterior maxilla gingival depigmentation was performed using scalpel #15. An Orban knife was used to shape the interdental area, followed by saline irrigation. A periodontal pack is placed on the surgical area. Two weeks of evaluation found that wound healing is fine, as painless and no infection occurred. Conclusion: Management of gingival discoloration by melanin with gingival depigmentation technique provides effective results.