Comparison of Diode Laser and Scalpel Technique in Frenectomy Procedure

Abstract

The Frenum is a fold of mucous membrane that attaches the lips and cheeks to the alveolar mucosa and/or gingiva and underlying periosteum Labial frenum with an abnormal attachment can be termed an aberrant frenum which may interfere with many oral functions such as pronunciation and tongue movement. Interference may also occur with various therapeutic modalities in many dental departments such as in prosthodontics, orthodontics, and periodontal health, resulting in biofilm accumulation and may cause recession and contribute to diastema formation. Objective: The aim of this study was to record and then compare the intra-operative and postoperative objective and subjective effects of Diode laser and conventional techniques after frenectomy surgery. Methods: In this study, two patients were included where one received frenectomy procedure using Diode laser with wavelength of 980 nm, power of 2 watts and the other patient received scalpel frnectomy. Results: The patient treated with Diode laser experienced no intra-operative pain, less local anesthetic was used, the surgical field was bloodless and no sutures were needed. As for the patient treated via conventional scalpel technique, more local anesthetic was used, no intra-operative pain was experienced but mild pain was experienced post-operatively and more analgesics were used. Bleeding during the procedure was moderate and sutures were placed after completion of the procedure. Conclusion: Diode laser showed superiority to scalpel technique due to reduced amount of anesthetic and analgesic used, the bloodless surgical field and no intraoperative pain.