Whether you feel like your smile is “too gummy” or you believe your teeth are too small, short, or stubby, a cosmetic dentistry treatment called laser gum contouring can help. Using a soft tissue laser, your dentist can remove excess tissue that could be standing in the way of your teeth, diminishing and shrinking your smile. Unfortunately, however, many people don’t know much about this treatment, and often what they think they know isn’t accurate. Here’s a closer look at the truth behind five common myths about laser gum contouring, and how this procedure could give you the gorgeous, glowing grin you’ve been dreaming of!
Laser Gum Contouring is Painful
In decades past, gum contouring was done with a scalpel and sutures, which although dentists always numb the mouth first, was admittedly a bit uncomfortable to recover from. The great news is that with laser gum contouring, much of that pain is eliminated. This treatment uses a soft tissue laser to essentially vaporize excess tissue, meaning not only is it more precise than a scalpel, but it is also more comfortable. Better still, because it cauterizes as it works, there is not usually any need for sutures, and it also reduces the risk of infection, meaning the healing process is much faster and more comfortable, too!
The Results Aren’t Permanent
This is another myth that’s simply not true. When removed with a soft tissue laser, gum contouring is a permanent procedure. That means your gum tissue will not grow back, and you should not need to have the treatment repeated!
It’s Only for People with Excessive Gum Tissue
While yes, laser gum contouring is an excellent option for patients who have excessive gum tissue, they’re not the only ones who can benefit from treatment. Even if you have a normal amount, the soft tissue laser can be used to reshape the gums to make your smile more symmetrical. It can also be used when placing veneers or crowns to help provide your restoration with a broader foundation.
It’s Harmful to Your Teeth
While it’s true that your gums are in place to protect the roots of your teeth, you can rest assured that your dentist has received extensive training to provide this treatment, and the precision of the laser will ensure that only the necessary amount of tissue will be removed. This means that no more of the tooth than necessary will ever be exposed, so your smile will remain healthy and safe.
It’s Only Beneficial to Your Appearance
Finally, the benefits of laser gum contouring to the appearance of your smile are undeniable, but they don’t stop there! In fact, this treatment has oral health perks, too! That’s because when you remove excess gum tissue, your teeth and gums become easier to clean, thereby reducing your risk of dangerous conditions like gum disease and cavities. Furthermore, because it can be used to aid your dentist in treatments like dental crowns, it can make your restorations more successful, ensuring they have the full potential to protect your smile!
Remember, while you may have heard some confusing misinformation about lase gum contouring before, the truth is that this fast, effective, and beautiful treatment can help your smile in myriad ways! To see if you qualify for laser gum contouring, schedule a consultation with your dentist today.
About Our Practice
At Juno Beach Smiles, Dr. Riley and Dr. Keuning are proud to offer a variety of smile enhancing cosmetic dentistry treatments like laser gum contouring. If you’re tired of having a gummy or asymmetrical smile or feel like your teeth are too short this procedure could be the answer. To see if you qualify, schedule a consultation for laser gum contouring today by visiting our website or calling 561-622-7243.