Smile Correction Using an Esthetic Crown Lengthening with Either Diode Laser or Scalpel – A Comparative Clinical Patient Perspective Study

Background and Objectives: A “gummy smile” which creates disharmony in a perfect smile is indeed a matter of concern and patient-related esthetic considerations should always be given a higher emphasis in the selection of the surgical techniques. The aim of this clinical study was to compare the patient perceptions of smile correction with an esthetic crown lengthening either with the laser or the scalpel.

Methods: Fourteen patients who presented with a “gummy smile” or an excessive gingival display associated with an altered passive eruption were recruited for the study. They were randomly assigned to either the laser or the scalpel group. Visual analog scores for pain and patient perceptions related to the esthetic change and expectations from the treatment were evaluated.

Results: The visual analog scores for pain and discomfort were significantly lower intra operatively and after the first day for the laser group compared to the scalpel. But there was no significant difference from the 3rd to the 7th day between both groups. There was a significant perception of the esthetic change after a week in the laser group but comparing the esthetic outcomes achieved by both groups after four weeks, there was no significant difference. Comparative patient perceptions related to expectations of treatment between the groups was not significant.

Conclusion: The outcome of this study demonstrated that laser can be used effectively as an alternative treatment to scalpel in smile correction associated with an altered passive eruption.