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Gum Contouring with Dental Lasers to fix Gummy Smiles

Some people possess teeth that simply look too “short” for their gums, creating what is commonly called a “gummy” smile. Gum contouring can fix that problem by removing extra gum tissue to expose more of the crown of the tooth.

Using a diode laser, your dentist can accurately sculpt your gum line, crafting the right fraction between gum tissue and tooth surface. First, your dentist applies a local anesthetic to the gums and removes the extra gum tissue. Then, your dentist will use the laser to reshape the edges of your gums that form a smile. The laser vaporizes and closes the excess gum tissue, avoiding cutting and bleeding.

Gum contouring generates a more balanced smile with an even gum line. When your gums are well-contoured, they look healthy, giving you a more attractive smile.

Gum contouring with the diode laser usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes if only a small quantity of tissue needs to be removed. For larger quantities, then gum surgery called crown lengthening is required and is accomplished in one to two hours. This surgery involves a four to six week healing period.

Once your dentist reshapes your gum line, you can also receive porcelain veneers to further improve your appearance.

If your dentist trims too much gum tissue, the mouth may fail to heal properly, leading to swelling and more treatment.

Gum contouring ranges in cost depending on the complexity of the case.

Friday, May 17, 2013