The laser gingivectomy. The use of the CO2 laser for the removal of phenytoin hyperplasia.

A new technique for the removal of phenytoin hyperplasia using the carbon dioxide (CO2) surgical laser is presented as well as a review of laser physics and the current uses of the CO2 laser in dentistry. Twelve cases of phenytoin hyperplasia removed surgically by the CO2 laser are presented; hence a laser gingivectomy. Advantages of the procedure include lack of hemorrhage yielding a dry field, noncontact surgery, sterilization of the surgical area, prompt healing, minimal post operative discomfort, and minimal time spent to perform the procedure. At the present time the use of the laser in dentistry is new and limited. In the future the laser may offer an alternative or an advancement to current procedures now used in dentistry.