Role of diode laser in oral submucous fibrosis

Introduction: Oral submucous fibrosis is a precancerous condition affecting the oral cavity, oro-pharynx and rarely esophagus, tongue and commonly seen in those consuming betel nut. Its incidence has been reported 0.5% of the Indian population with a 7.6% potential for development of oral malignancy. Although various treatment modalities like medical and surgical are available, but there no single specific treatment modality for this condition. Case Report: A male patient of age 45-year-old diagnosed with oral submucous fibrosis was treated with diode laser under local anesthesia and followed for three months. Conclusion: Excision of the fibrous bands done by using diode laser followed by covering of collagen sheath on the raw surface of buccal mucosa gives uneventful healing with satisfactory results.