In decades past, when patients had excessive gingival 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 heal, this procedure was often considered painful and left the mouth vulnerable to infection during healing.
Enter the soft tissue laser. This dynamic device simplified treatment, eliminating the need for the scalpel and sutures, and allowing dentists to perform it faster and more safely. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of laser gum contouring versus traditional.
What is Laser Gum Contouring?
Laser gum contouring is a procedure done with a soft-tissue laser to remove excess gum tissue from along the gumline, where the gingival 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 Contouring
Conversely to treatment with a soft-tissue laser, traditional gum contouring 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.
What are the Benefits of Laser Gum Contouring?
Although it is considered more comfortable and convenient than traditional surgery, the two methods are permanent solutions for removing excess gum tissue. No matter which method you choose, gum contouring can improve the aesthetics of your smile by creating larger looking teeth and greater balance and symmetry in your grin. It can also help improve your oral hygiene by making it easier to keep your mouth clean and lower your risk of cavities and periodontal disease and infections.
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 contouring could be the answer. To learn more about this treatment and the many benefits of using a soft-tissue laser to complete it, 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 contouring could be the answer. To learn more about this safe, effective, and comfortable treatment, schedule a consultation for laser gum contouring today by visiting our website or calling us at 561-622-7243.