Gingival Depigmentation Using Scalpel Technique: A Case Report

Abstract

Excessive gingival pigmentation is a major esthetic concern for many people. Though, it is not a medical problem, many people complain of dark gums as unaesthetic. Gingival hyperpigmentation is believed to be a genetic trait in populations and is more appropriately termed physiologic or racial gingival pigmentation; a condition, which affects all races differently. Gingival pigmentation can be removed for esthetic reasons using methods like chemical cauterization, bur abrasion, scalpel surgery, cryosurgery, electrosurgery, gingival grafts and laser techniques. A case is reported here where surgical depigmentation was performed.