Posted 04/15/2024
We all know that having teeth that are straight, bright, and clean is an excellent way to make lasting impressions on people. However, there are also a number of important matters to consider where the gums are concerned. Indeed, the gums can make all the difference when it comes to the overall appearance and beauty of your smile.
Let's take a few moments right now to consider how laser gum recontouring may be just the solution that you need to improve the overall beauty of your smile.
Gum Problems and the Appearance of Your Smile
There are many issues to consider when it comes to the prominence and appearance of the gums. One problematic issue is when smiles are dominated by the gumline. The unscientific but accurate description of these issues is "a gummy smile."
By and large, gummy smiles are genetic in nature, though sometimes certain medications can cause issues with gumline prominence. One of the most effective ways to reduce the prominence of the gumline is to undergo laser gum recontouring.
What is laser gum recontouring exactly?
Laser gum recontouring refers to the use of a safe surgical laser to carefully remove some of the gum tissue along the gumline. In the past, this was done using a scalpel, though laser technology has made it easier and more effective to enhance overall gum appearance and health.
Advantages of Laser Gum Reshaping to Traditional Recontourng Surgery
When a scalpel was used, patients would experience a fair amount of bleeding since this is the nature of the use of scalpels and physical tools in surgical procedures. Because of the bleeding and adjustment of tissues, discomfort after treatment was pretty noticeable.
Lasers in periodontal care eliminate many of the problems associated with scalpels. For one, lasers will cauterize as they cut, meaning that there is far less bleeding involved in than traditional gum reshaping surgeries. In addition, lasers greatly reduce chances of infection during the surgery. Because of the cauterization and sterilization of the laser, patients experience much faster healing times and reduced discomfort.
What Patients Can Expect During Laser Gum Reshaping
Patients will sit back and relax during the procedure, which is performed using local anesthetic. The process itself is free from pain and discomfort, though we should note that the treatment times and level of work required will vary from patient to patient.
Recovery is generally easy for patients and they will be given detailed post-op instructions for dietary concerns and normal dental care. Any pain experienced is easily addressed through the use of over-the-counter medications.
Other Options for Enhancing the Appearance of the Smile
In addition to reshaping the gums, dentists have so many other options for patients to consider if they want to have smiles that look their absolute best. By undergoing teeth whitening, getting porcelain veneers placed, or undergoing orthodontic care, you can get the beautiful smile that you have always wanted to have.
Learn More About Laser Gum Recontouring
If you would like more information about laser gum recontoruing and the many other options out there for improving the appearance and health of your smile, be sure to contact our Troy, MI dental care practice today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible dental wellness in the process.