Gum Recontouring (Gummy Smile)

For some, recontouring their gum tissue may be needed to lengthen their teeth and provide an overall improved balance to their smile. Gum recontouring is often utilized to address “gummy smiles,” and our team at Austin Dental Spa has much experience performing this procedure. Continue reading to learn more about laser gum recontouring performed by our cosmetic dentist

What Is A Gummy Smile?

Some people may want to address the dental concern known as a “gummy smile.” This phrase often refers to extra gum tissue that is present along your gum line. If there is excess gum tissue, the result can be this “gummy smile.” With advances in periodontal procedures, this condition can be treated with much more precision and ease. At Austin Dental Spa, we offer laser dentistry for gum recontouring, which can enhance the smiles of patients with minimal discomfort. 

What Are the Benefits of Laser Gum Recontouring?

Laser gum recontouring is a precise procedure that is able to eliminate any extra gum tissue that is present around the teeth. By removing this excess gum tissue, patients with a “gummy” appearance can achieve a much more balanced smile. Oftentimes, reducing the amount of gum tissue present along the teeth by using the laser gum recontouring process can be completed in one visit. An additional benefit to gum laser treatment is that it is virtually painless, providing a more comfortable option than traditional methods.

What Does the Laser Gum Procedure Involve?

The process of laser gum recontouring begins with an assessment of your smile so that our team is able to determine how much work will be needed in order to provide you with a more balanced and symmetrical oral appearance. At your initial consultation, a comprehensive treatment plan will be developed by you and our team. Using the state-of-the-art Waterlase® MD laser, the entire process takes about an hour to reduce the amount of gum tissue present in your smile. Following your procedure, the recovery process is extremely minimal with virtually no downtime. 

Are There Any Alternatives to Laser Gum Recontouring?

If you wish to reduce the amount of gum seen without undergoing more invasive procedures, BOTOX® Cosmetic can be a great, inexpensive alternative. Instead of raising your gums, Dr. Sweeney is certified to administer BOTOX® injections in your lip, which reduces the appearance of excess gum tissue. By eliminating the excessive muscle pull, your upper lip does not raise as high, and BOTOX® injections can give you the smile you desire. The procedure typically takes only about 15 minutes to complete. Results can be seen as soon as three to four days after the procedure and continue to occur over the next few months.

Is Laser Gum Recontouring Painful?

In most cases, our team will utilize a local anesthetic in order to numb the targeted area. Laser gum recontouring is often a much less uncomfortable and painful procedure than traditional gum removal procedures. With advances in technology, laser gum recontouring allows for people to enhance their smile and address their “gummy smile” in a process that causes minimal discomfort. 

What Is Recovery Like After Laser Gum Recontouring?

The recovery process for a laser gum recontouring procedure will differ depending on the individual needs of each patient. The work needed to meet the needs of every person will be unique and likely vary from treatment to treatment. Generally speaking, recovery from laser gum recontouring is a quick and seamless process. Our team will be able to provide more in depth detail about your recovery during your initial consultation. 

How Much Does Laser Gum Recontouring Cost? 

Similar to the recovery of laser gum recontouring, the total price will vary. Patients will often have specific needs unique to their mouth and gums. In order to meet those needs, the complex work our team will need to conduct will be much different for every person. During your consultation, our team will have a better understanding of your situation and will be able to provide a cost estimate. 

Contact Austin Dental Spa

For more information on how you can renew the appearance of your gums with laser gum lifting, or if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk more about this procedure, please contact us at Austin Dental Spa today.