Laser scalp and photobiomodulation as an alternative for patients with drug-induced gingival hyperplasia: a case report

The aim of this study was to report on a dental intervention using a combination of two therapeutic approaches, the manual scalpel and the laser scalpel technique, associated with local photobiomodulation using Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), in order to reduce an episode of severe gingival hyperplasia associated with the continuous use of anticonvulsants drugs in patients with neurological disorders. A 15-year-old male with a clinical history of hydrocephalus bedridden with limited movement with interaction deficit and epilepsy, was admitted to the intensive care unit of a charitable public hospital with recurrent pneumonia episodes. After assessment by the dental team, an extense drug-induced gingival hyperplasia was found, which due to its extention and complexity was referred for surgical intervention.  The findings showed that the presented treatments are effective in restoring gingival contour and anatomy, and that high-power laser gingivectomy provides intraoperative advantages including hemostasis, reduced operative time, and promotion of better tissue repair.