This article explains what laser gum recontouring is, and how it can help you achieve a celebrity smile.
A common problem that cosmetic dentists see when patients come to them for a smile makeover is often referred to as a “gummy smile” by the patient. The technical jargon that dentist’s use in reference to gummy smile is excessive gingival tissue. A gummy smile is typically apparent when the patient smiles big or laughs. Too much gingival tissue shows above the gumline, making the patient’s teeth look too small, too big, or just unbalanced. Sometimes it can give the appearance on first glance of not having any teeth at all because the gingival tissue is so prominent. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry offers solutions for these patients.
The most radical treatment for a gummy smile involves surgical removal by a periodontist. The surgical method can remove bony protrusions as well, and is usually the desired method if the patient has an unusually large amount of gum tissue and bone to remove. Stitches are required, and surgical healing time can take up to six weeks.
The most conservative treatment for a gummy smile is laser recontouring surgery. This method is utilized if there is a minimal amount of tissue to remove, or if the gum line is simply uneven. Laser recontouring does not cause a large amount of bleeding, stitches aren’t required, and total recovery takes a mere 24 - 72 hours. Post-treatment pain and swelling in the area is minimal.
What Causes A Gummy Smile?
If you are one of the millions of people who have a gummy smile, it’s likely that your parents, grandparents, or siblings may have a gummy smile as well. The main cause of it is genetics, though recent research suggests that maternal diet may also play a role in how a baby’s teeth and gums eventually develop. Some prescription drugs taken during early life may also have some effect. The opposite of a gummy smile -- gum recession -- can be caused by prolonged illness and poor dental hygiene. Some patients with an uneven gum line have a combination of excessive gum tissue in some areas and recessed gums in other areas. This is almost always the result of lifestyle factors.
Is Gum Recontouring a Medically Necessary Procedure?
Regardless of the cause of your gummy smile, laser gum recontouring is not usually regarded by dental insurance companies as being a medical necessity. Therefore, most patients do end up paying out-of-pocket for laser gum recontouring surgery. Some insurance companies may consider laser gum recontouring to be crown lengthening or pocket reduction, which is an insured procedure in many cases. Be sure to check with your insurance provider before your treatment so you will be aware of what costs you will need to pay for with cash.
What Type of Doctor Performs Laser Recontouring?
This procedure is typically performed by a cosmetic dentist in NYC or periodontist. Some periodontists may perform traditional periodontal surgery, which requires stitches and several weeks of recovery time, so check with your doctor to find out whether he is using an outpatient laser procedure or a traditional surgical procedure.
What is the Cost of Laser Gum Recontouring?
The cost varies depending on how much gum tissue is affected, and whether you are having other procedures done as well. Sometimes laser gum recontouring is performed before applying porcelain veneers. The cost may be included in the cost of your dental veneers. Dental insurance will not cover cosmetic procedures.
What Should I Expect During The Laser Procedure?
Before the laser gum recontouring procedure, your dentist in New York will apply a local anesthetic. This will prevent you from feeling any discomfort as the excessive periodontal tissue is removed by laser. You will also be shown where the new gum line will be after the procedure so you will know exactly what results to expect.
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