Management of Gingival Enlargement during Orthodontic Treatment by Diode Lasers versus Conventional Method

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of diode lasers (810-980 nm) in treating gingival enlargement caused by orthodontic appliances. Additionally, to compare the outcomes of diode laser treatment with the conventional method (scalpel) in managing gingival enlargement. Materials and Methods: For this study, a total of 20 patients ranging in age from 14 to 28 years old were included. These individuals were divided into two groups: the laser group and the conventional group. In the laser group, surgery was performed on 10 patients using an 810–980 nm diode laser in continuous wave mode with energy settings of 1.5–2 watts. On the other hand, the conventional group also consisted of 10 patients who underwent gingival enlargement management due to an orthodontic appliance using a scalpel. To assess pain and discomfort, patients were provided with a questionnaire to record their experiences daily for the first seven days following the surgery. Pain and discomfort were evaluated using a verbal rating scale. During follow-up visits, plaque index, bleeding on probing, healing, and swelling were assessed. Additionally, the duration of the surgery and bleeding scores were recorded during the surgical procedure. Results: The initial postoperative bleeding score was significantly lower in the laser group compared to the conventional group. The duration of the procedure was shorter in the laser group than in the conventional group. Additionally, the laser group exhibited lower levels of PI and BOP percentages compared to the conventional group. Notably, there was a significant different in the percentage of BOP, with a P=0.03 in the first week, and a P=0.002 in the fourth week, as determined by T-tests. When comparing individuals in the laser group to those in the conventional group, it was observed that the pain and discomfort scores decreased. Furthermore, the swelling score was significantly lower in the laser group compared to the conventional group, particularly in the third week (Chi square statistic = 4.9, P=0.05). Lastly, there was a significant variation in healing scores in the laser group throughout all weeks of follow-up, as indicated by the T-test (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that diode lasers operating within the range of 810-980 nm, when set at the appropriate power level, prove to be an effective method for managing gingal enlargement caused by orthodontic appliances.