• Background: Physiologic gingival pigmentation is predominantly found in dark-skin populations. It raises esthetic concerns, and therefore various treatment modalities have been explored to address it. Lasers have emerged as the most preferred approach for gingival depigmentation. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the effect of 980 nm diode laser for the management of gingival pigmentation.
• Materials and methods: Ten healthy non-smoker individuals with physiologic gingival pigmentation were enrolled in the study, and were managed using diode laser (980nm, 1.5W, continuous wave mode). Clinical evaluation of the intensity of pigmentation was performed preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months postoperatively using Dummett-Gupta oral pigmentation index.
• Results: There was a decrease in pigmentation index scores with a significant statistical difference between pre-operative visit and follow-up visits. (P<0.0001*)
• Conclusion: 980 nm diode laser was effective in reducing gingival pigmentation. The selective absorption of 980 nm diode laser by melanin led to efficient depigmentation with minimal pain and tissue damage. Hence, 980 nm diode laser would be an optimal tool for the management of physiologic gingival pigmentation.