Effect of low-level laser therapy on wound healing and patients' response after scalpel gingivectomy: A randomized clinical split-mouth study

BACKGROUND: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is based on the principle of biostimulation or biomodulation effect. LLLT after gingivectomy has resulted in better wound healing because of its action on collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and growth factor release. AIM: The aim of this split-mouth controlled clinical trial was to assess the effect of LLLT, using diode laser (InGaAsP), on wound healing and patients' response after scalpel gingivectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty patients with gingival enlargement in the maxillary and mandibular anterior region (bilaterally symmetrical) were included in the study. After gingivectomy, a diode laser (InGaAsP) was randomly applied to one side of the surgical area on the 1(st), 3(rd), and 7(th) day postoperatively. The surgical areas were disclosed by a solution (Alpha Plac(®)) to visualize the areas where the epithelium was absent. Comparison of the surface areas on the LLLT-applied sites and controls was made clinically by visualizing the stained area by two examiners. RESULTS: LLLT-applied sites had significantly lower stained areas signifying improved wound healing compared with the controls on the postoperative 7(th) and 30(th) day. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the results indicated that LLLT might improve wound healing after gingivectomy.