The gums are meant to delicately frame the teeth, rather than serve as the primary focal point. If you have an uneven gum line or too much gum tissue covering your teeth, laser gum contouring at our Albuquerque, NM, dental practice can safely eliminate excess gum tissue to create a more even frame for your teeth. Dr. Michael Haight prefers to use a laser instead of a traditional scalpel due to improved precision, less pain and bleeding, and a faster recovery.
Patients with a gummy or uneven gum line are typically eligible for laser gum contouring. Candidates should be in good oral health, however. If extensive decay or periodontal disease is present, our doctors will recommend restorative procedures before any cosmetic treatments are performed. During an initial consultation at our practice, we will perform a thorough assessment of your teeth, gums, and surrounding oral structures to determine if laser gum contouring is right for you.
The laser technology used in this procedure cauterizes and sterilizes the tissue instantly, significantly reducing the risk for infection.
Before beginning laser gum contouring, Dr. Haight may administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Once you are comfortable, he will carefully measure your gum tissue to determine how much should be removed. Using a soft tissue diode laser, he will then remove the excess gum and reshape the remaining tissue for a symmetrical, balanced appearance.
Laser gum contouring removes excess gum tissue so that your smile looks bigger and more balanced.
The laser technology used in this procedure cauterizes and sterilizes the tissue instantly, significantly reducing the risk for infection. As a result, there is minimal post-treatment bleeding and discomfort. This technique also eliminates the need for stitches.
Following the procedure, you may experience slight tenderness or discomfort. However, these side effects typically diminish within the first couple of days. We will provide you with a detailed list of post-operative guidelines to help you enjoy a comfortable and successful recovery.
Patients who undergo laser gum contouring at our practice can enjoy numerous advantages, especially compared to conventional gum contouring, including:
Furthermore, laser gum contouring can even help improve your oral hygiene. When extra gum tissue is present, bacteria can hide between the teeth and gums, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease. By eliminating excess tissue, laser gum contouring makes these areas easier to clean.
If you are unhappy with teeth that appear short or if you have a gummy smile, laser gum contouring could be the solution for you. To explore your treatment options, schedule a consultation at Parkway Dental. Contact us online or give us a call at (505) 298-7479.