In decades past, when patients had excessive tissue that gave them a smile that appeared “gummy” or teeth that seemed too small or stubby, gum recontouring was their treatment of choice. But traditional methods of this permanent surgery left a lot to be desired. Performed by a dentist with a scalpel and requiring sutures to keep incisions closed, this procedure was often considered painful and left the mouth vulnerable to infection during healing.
Enter the soft tissue laser. Although the introduction of this device changed treatment forever, many patients still don’t understand the differences between laser gum recontouring versus traditional. Here’s a closer look at both.
What is Gum Recontouring?
Gum Recontouring is a procedure performed by your dentist to remove excess gum tissue that may make your teeth look too small and stubby or your smile too gummy. It can also make your grin more symmetrical, helping to maintain balance in your face. In addition to its aesthetic benefits, this treatment also makes it easier to keep your gums clean and helps prevent gum disease, which could eventually lead to tooth loss.
Laser Gum Recontouring
Laser gum recontouring uses a soft-tissue laser to remove excess gum tissue from along the gumline, where the tissue meets the teeth. It has the benefit of being more precise than using a scalpel, and because it vaporizes the tissue as it reshapes it, it cauterizes the area, eliminating the need for sutures. This also means that the gums have a lower risk of infection during healing, bleed less, and recover much faster than with traditional surgery.
Traditional Gum Recontouring
Conversely to treatment with a soft-tissue laser, traditional gum recontouring requires your dentist to carefully cut away excess tissue with a scalpel and close the incisions with sutures to stop bleeding and reduce the risk of infection. Not only does this treatment take longer to perform, but it is also less precise, and many patients find it more painful than using the soft-tissue laser. Furthermore, some find the stitches uncomfortable and unsightly until they dissolve or are removed by a dentist.
Remember, if you’re looking for a permanent way to reduce excess periodontal tissue that could be making your teeth look short or stubby or your smile gummy, laser gum recontouring could be the answer. To learn more about this treatment, including whether the soft-tissue laser is right for you, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Our Practice
At Juno Beach Smiles, Dr. Riley and Dr. Keuning are proud to help improve the oral health of patients of all ages. If you’ve been considering removing excess gingival tissue that could be making your teeth look too short or stubby or your smile too gummy, laser gum recontouring could be the answer. To learn more about this safe, effective, and comfortable treatment, schedule a consultation for laser gum recontouring today by visiting our website or calling us at 561-622-7243.