When you have an overabundance of visible gum tissue, it can disrupt the proportions of your smile. Many patients find this to be cosmetically displeasing, and some even become insecure about showing off their smile for fear of exposing their prominent gums. Cosmetic dentist Dean Lodding, DDS offers laser gum recontouring, a procedure that can help reduce excess gum tissue in order to give you a more balanced, proportionate smile aesthetic.
The term “gummy smile” refers to cases where excess gum tissue covers the tops of the teeth, oftentimes making the teeth appear short and the gums overly prominent. Though generally considered a purely aesthetic concern, a gummy smile can lead to decreased confidence and cause people to avoid smiling out of insecurity. The condition can be caused by several different factors, including the overgrowth of gum tissue, the natural way the teeth grow in, or a “hyperactive” upper lip that raises too far above the gum line when smiling.
Your dentist will first assess the cause and severity of your gummy smile, which will enable him to best address your concerns. Once it is decided that laser gum recontouring is the optimal solution, you may move forward with treatment. Typically, an oral anesthetic will be applied to the gums in order to optimize your comfort during the procedure. Our state-of-the-art laser technology will then be used to precisely remove and recontour excess gum tissue for an improved smile aesthetic.
While it can be performed on its own, laser gum recontouring is often incorporated as part of a comprehensive smile makeover. During your smile design consultation, your dentist will take into consideration how a gum lift can best accentuate any other cosmetic enhancements being performed, such as porcelain veneers or crowns.
Recovery after a laser gum lift is typically relatively quick with minimal discomfort. Patients may experience increased gum sensitivity and tenderness for a few days, but this should subside with time. Your dentist will give you personalized aftercare instructions during your consultation and after your procedure.
“This a real dentist. Impressed with his knowledge and kindness. Appreciate his professionalism and honesty. I am confident that I am going to get amazing look teeth.”
The precise cost of laser gum contouring will vary depending on the specifics of each individual case. Factors such as how much gum tissue is being removed and how much recontouring is required will influence the final price. Since laser gum lifting is often performed in conjunction with other smile-enhancing procedures, those costs must also be taken into account when applicable. A member of our team will be able to give you a personalized price quote after your consultation.
To help make treatment more affordable for our patients, we accept a number of payment options. We also accept financing through CareCredit®<> and Alphaeon® Credit, trusted third-party healthcare lenders who offer low- and no-interest loans for qualified applicants.
Interested in learning more about laser gum recontouring? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.