Q-switched ruby laser is safe and effective in treating primary gingival hyperpigmentation.

Background: Physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation (PGH) is a benign condition that results from increased melanin production and is prevalent among darker skin individuals. Although the use of lasers for PGH has gained popularity in recent years, the lasers being used are mostly ablative, and act through a non-selective tissue damage mechanism.

Aims: The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of a non-ablative 694-nm Q-switched ruby laser (QSRL) for the depigmentation of PGH.

Methods: A retrospective single-center study of patients diagnosed with PGH and treated with a QSRL Between March 2019 and November 2020.

Results: Four patients were treated with QSRL for 1-3 sessions, until complete depigmentation was achieved. The average follow-up was 11 months (range 7-18 months) with no patient exhibiting re-pigmentation. Adverse events included mild local tenderness and transient erosions in two patients.

Conclusion: The 694-nm QSRL is a novel and promising safe and effective method for treating PGH with the advantages of being a non-ablative modality that minimizes tissue damage and optimizes the outcome.