Improving a Gummy Smile With Laser Gum Reshaping
Why Some Smiles Show More Gum Tissue
A gummy smile occurs when more gum tissue than usual is visible during smiling. In many cases, the teeth themselves are healthy, but excess gum tissue partially covers the enamel, making the teeth appear shorter than they actually are.
The amount of gum visible during smiling can vary for several reasons. Upper lip position, tooth size, and the extent of gum tissue covering the enamel can all influence how much gum is visible when a person smiles.
In some cases, Laser Gum Reshaping in Concord, MA may be recommended to adjust the gumline and reveal more of the natural tooth surface.
Understanding the Causes of a Gummy Smile
A gummy smile can develop for several reasons. In some patients, the gums naturally extend farther over the tooth surface. In other cases, the teeth may appear small because part of the enamel remains covered by gum tissue.
Facial muscle movement and the height of the upper lip can also influence how much gum is visible during smiling. Because several factors can contribute to the appearance, clinicians evaluate both the teeth and the surrounding gum tissue before recommending treatment.
A periodontal examination helps determine whether Gum Contouring is appropriate for improving the balance between the teeth and the gums.
How Laser Gum Reshaping Adjusts the Gumline
Laser technology enables clinicians to reshape gum tissue with precise control. During Gum Reshaping Treatment, a dental laser removes small amounts of excess gum tissue along the edge of the teeth.
The laser allows the clinician to sculpt the gumline so it follows the natural contour of each tooth. Because the laser seals small blood vessels during treatment, bleeding is often limited.
Laser treatment reshapes the gumline so more of the tooth surface becomes visible while preserving healthy surrounding tissue.
What Happens During the Procedure
Before treatment begins, the clinician evaluates the gumline and determines how much tissue should be adjusted. Local anesthesia is commonly used to keep the area comfortable during the procedure.
During Gummy Smile Correction, the laser gradually removes small sections of excess tissue. The clinician continually checks the shape and symmetry of the gumline to maintain a natural appearance.
Because the treatment focuses only on excess tissue, surrounding healthy gum tissue is preserved whenever possible.
Healing After Laser Gum Reshaping
Most patients experience mild tenderness for a short period after the procedure. The gums gradually stabilize as healing progresses and the new contour settles.
Patients are usually advised to follow specific oral hygiene instructions during the healing period. Gentle brushing and good plaque control help support healthy gum tissue after treatment.
Follow-up visits allow the clinician to monitor healing and ensure the gumline remains stable.
Why a Periodontal Evaluation Matters
Changes to the gumline should always be based on careful clinical evaluation. A periodontist examines the relationship between the teeth, gum tissue, and underlying bone before recommending treatment.
Clinicians trained in Periodontics in Concord, MA evaluate these factors to determine whether gum reshaping alone will achieve the desired result or whether additional periodontal care may be necessary.
Considering Treatment for Excess Gum Display
People who feel that their smile shows excessive gum tissue often seek professional evaluation to understand their treatment options. The severity of gum display, tooth proportions, and overall gum health all influence the treatment plan.
At Concord Lexington Periodontics, treatment planning is based on individual clinical findings and gum health.