Laser Gum Contouring Candidates

There are several elements that make up an attractive smile. One factor that can affect the appearance of the smile is the tooth-to-gum ratio. Patients with a gummy smile or uneven gum line can benefit from gum contouring at our Englewood, NJ practice.

Using laser dentistry technology, we can remove excess gum tissue and reveal more of the healthy tooth structure, while reshaping the existing gum line for a more balanced look.

Here, our team at Periodontal Associates discusses who is a good laser gum contouring candidate and who can benefit from this procedure.

About Laser Gum Contouring

Before we discuss candidacy for laser gum contouring, we will take a brief look at how the procedure works. Before beginning treatment, the gums are numbed with local anesthesia. Next, excess tissue will be removed using a soft tissue diode laser. The remaining gum line is then reshaped and recontoured for a more symmetrical appearance.

Because the laser used in this procedure seals the tissue as it cuts, stitches are usually not required. Laser gum contouring can typically be completed in about one hour in our office.

General Candidacy for Laser Gum Contouring

Individuals who are unhappy with a gummy smile or uneven gum line may be good candidates for laser gum contouring. For example, this procedure can effectively address:

• Teeth that appear boxy or too short
• A smile that shows more gum tissue than teeth structure
• An irregular tooth-to-gum ratio

In addition, patients considering treatment should be in good oral and overall health. For example, there should be no medical condition that could adversely affect the success of treatment. It is also important to treat any serious dental issue beforehand, such as tooth decay or periodontal disease.

Benefits of Laser Gum Contouring

Compared to its traditional counterpart, laser gum contouring offers a wide range of advantages. For example, because the soft tissue diode laser cauterizes as it incises, patients experience significantly less bleeding during the procedure. In turn, this means less post-operative bleeding, swelling, and discomfort.

Recovery after the procedure is quick and usually requires zero downtime. The laser energy actually sterilizes and seals the tissue, thereby reducing the risk for infection and other post-treatment complications.

Cosmetically speaking, laser gum contouring offers instant results. In other words, a patient can walk into our office with an uneven gum line and leave one hour later with a beautiful smile.

After Laser Gum Contouring

Patients who undergo laser gum contouring do not require much downtime. Even so, the gums may appear slightly red and irritated.

It can be tempting to skip brushing and flossing while your tissues heal. However, it is important to brush and floss regularly as your comfort level allows.

During the first few days, you may wish to avoid hard, crunchy foods that could irritate your gums..

Contact Our Practice for More Information

The gums are meant to delicately frame the teeth. If your gums are too noticeable or if you have an uneven or gummy smile, laser gum contouring could be the solution for you. To explore your treatment options, schedule a consultation at our practice. Contact us online or give us a call at (201) 567-7766.