Injectable Vitamin C and Conventional Scalpel Surgery in the Management of Physiologic Gingival Hyperpigmentation: A Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Background: Physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation is a common aesthetic concern caused by increased melanin deposition within the gingival epithelium. Although benign, excessive pigmentation may adversely affect smile aesthetics, prompting many patients to seek treatment. Both surgical and minimally invasive techniques have been proposed for gingival depigmentation, each with distinct advantages and limitations.

Case Presentation: This was a cross-sectional study performed using a digital self-administered questionnaire based on non-probability convenience sampling, and the study was undertaken involving an Indian population that consisted of dental students through a questionnaire comprising 23 predefined responses, including ethical/dress code, professional attitude toward colleagues, and relationship between senior and junior dental students and professionals related questions. The pilot study was conducted on 20 participants to validate the questionnaire.

Result: Injectable vitamin C resulted in gradual improvement in gingival pigmentation with no postoperative pain, whereas scalpel surgery achieved depigmentation with satisfactory healing after one week and only mild postoperative discomfort.

Conclusion: Injectable vitamin C offers a minimally invasive alternative with excellent patient comfort, whereas the scalpel technique provides predictable and immediate aesthetic improvement. Both techniques may be considered effective treatmentoptions when selected according to individual patient needs.

Key words:  Gingival hyperpigmentation; Injectable vitamin C; Scalpel depigmentation; Gingival aesthetics; Dummett–Gupta Oral Pigmentation Index.