Lasers play an increasingly central role in both cosmetic and functional aspects of medicine. Perhaps your dentist has already recommended you laser gum contouring. When considering the procedure, here are 6 things to know about laser gum contouring.

6 Things to Know About Laser Gum Contouring

1. Laser Gum Contouring Is Usually a Cosmetic Treatment

Firstly, let’s give you the basics of the treatment. Laser gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to reshape your gum line. The laser device ablates (removes) precise amounts of tissue to sculpt your gums into your target shape.

1.5. But It Does Have Health Benefits

While lasers can help with cosmetic issues, they can also prove a practical health benefit for your gums.

Firstly, it can provide medical benefits for patients affected by gum disease. Laser gum contouring can remove excess gum tissue, which could otherwise trap bacteria.
Excess gum removal can also make it easier to maintain good dental hygiene.

2. What Cosmetic Problems Can Laser Gum Contouring Solve

A key advantage of laser treatments is their flexibility. While the core mechanism remains the same, laser gum contouring can help several cosmetic concerns related to your gums.

Gummy Smile: Many individuals may feel like a gummy smile detracts from their confidence. Gum contouring can help reduce the amount of visible gum, letting your smile shine through more.
Uneven Gum Line: Genetics or health conditions could have left you with an uneven gum line. This involves your gums providing various coverage over your teeth. Laser gum contouring can create a more balanced look.
Receding Gums: While gum contouring cannot stop receding gums, it can help with their appearance. By reshaping the gums, your dentist can help give your teeth better coverage. This has an aesthetic benefit, but it can also reduce tooth sensitivity.

3. The Treatment Is Comfortable

Laser gum contouring involves minimal discomfort, both before and after the treatment. During your visit, we can numb your gums to give you a pain-free experience.

The laser seals the gum tissue as it works. So patients experience very quick healing with minimal discomfort after treatment. You should have no need for stitches or taking time off from work.

Still, some mild soreness is normal. Typically, this lasts only a few days and should not interfere with your daily routine. Patients can readily manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

4. The Treatment Takes Less than an Hour

While each case can vary, the majority of treatments take 60 minutes or less. For many patients, it is closer to half an hour only. The amount of time will depend on how much gum tissue will need removal.

Most patients will only need a single session to get maximum benefits. However, complex cases may require a follow-up visit. During your consultation, your dentist will let you know what your treatment plan will entail.

5. Insurance May Cover Treatment (But Only If Not Cosmetic)

Since laser gum contouring is a cosmetic treatment, most dental insurance plans do not provide coverage for it. Insurance plans typically only cover treatments deemed medically necessary.

However, many dental offices offer flexible ways to pay for the treatment. We recommend asking about financing options or payment plans. These help offset the initial cost by breaking it into several installments.

Insurance might provide coverage for patients having the treatment to fight gum disease. However, the amount of coverage will vary according to your plan.

6. The Results Are Long Lasting

Once the gum tissue is removed, it should not grow back. However, your smile will still need care. Keeping your teeth and gums clean will help you get the most out of your results for a lifetime.

Importantly, poor dental hygiene can lead to future changes in your gum line. For example, your gums could begin receding or become affected by gum disease. As long as you keep in mind the three pillars of oral hygiene, your results should last for years. These pillars include:

Brushing and flossing daily
Having routine dental visits twice a year
Maintaining a healthy diet with minimal sugar

Visit a Premium Laser Gum Contouring Specialist

When working with any dentist, you want the best on your side. Smile Artists of LA have years of experience in helping patients bring the best out of their smiles.