Diode laser-assisted gingivectomy for hereditary gingival fibromatosis in a 5-year-old child
Shilpa Shetty Naik, Arvind Shetty, Sanjana Ratnakar Kodical, Nikitha Balasubramanian, Ashveeta Shetty, Shagorika ChoudhuryAbstract:
Hereditary gingival fibromatosis is a rare genetic condition characterized by slow, progressive gingival enlargement. This case report presents a 5-year-old child with generalized gingival overgrowth involving both arches, leading to functional limitations including difficulty in mastication and speech. The clinical examination revealed firm, noninflammatory gingiva with generalized bleeding on probing and significant tooth coverage. A positive family history supported the diagnosis. Surgical intervention was performed using an 810-nm diode laser (Biolase) in continuous mode at 3–3.5 W, applied using a contact technique with sweeping strokes for approximately 5–10 s per site. Postoperative outcomes showed probing depth reduction from 3–4 mm to 2–3 mm and a decrease in gingival coverage from >75% to <25%, with satisfactory gingival contour restoration, reduced bleeding on probing, and improved functional ability. These findings indicate that early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential to prevent functional and esthetic complications. However, long-term follow-up is crucial due to the high risk of recurrence associated with this condition.