Management of gingival hyperpigmentation by surgical abrasion – Report of three cases

Esthetics has become a significant aspect of dentistry and clinicians are faced with achieving acceptable gingival esthetics as well as addressing biologic and functional problems. The color of the gingiva plays an important role in overall esthetics but the principles and the techniques of the management of the problems associated with gingival melanin pigmentation are still not fully established. A method of de-epithelialization of the pigmented or discolored areas of the gingiva usinga surgical diamond bur is documented. The technique is relatively simple and versatile and requires minimum time and effort. If repigmentation occurs, the procedure can be done repeatedly in the same area without limitation or causing any permanent damage. Three cases of gingival hyperpigmentation treated by the surgical abrasion technique are described here. After eighteen months follow up, none of the cases showed any recurrence of the pigmentation.