Evaluation of Microneedling with Ascorbic Acid Application and Diode Laser in the Management of Gingival Hyperpigmentation: A Prospective Comparative Clinical Trial
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: There has been a significant rise in individuals seeking cosmetic care to enhance their appearance. This has led to an increase in patients seeking gingival depigmentation to correct their ‘black gums’. Several techniques are presently available to treat hyperpigmented gingiva. The present trial attempted to evaluate and compare the efficacy of microneedling technique with topical ascorbic acid application versus diode laser in gingival depigmentation. The selected quadrants from five patients were randomly treated either by micro-needling with ascorbic acid application or diode laser. The degree of pigmentation was assessed using the Dummett-Gupta Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI) pre- and post-procedure over a period of 6 months. Both the microneedling and laser groups demonstrated statistically significant reduction in pigmentation scores over the trial period with no unfavourable post-operative sequelae. The microneedling technique with ascorbic acid application can be considered as an equivalent if not superior alternative to diode laser in performing gingival depigmentation.
Source: Journal of chemical health risks
Author: Navya Shree Ramesh
Language: English
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7218291044