Gum lasering, also known as gum contouring or gingivectomy, is a dental procedure where a dentist or periodontist uses a laser or scalpel to remove and reshape excess gum tissue, often to improve the appearance of a gummy smile or to address gum disease.
Purpose of Gum Lasering
The primary goals of gum lasering are to:
- Expose More Tooth Structure: By removing excess gum tissue that covers too much of the teeth, the procedure can create a more aesthetically pleasing and balanced smile.
- Reshape the Gumline: The gumline is sculpted to create a more even and symmetrical appearance.
- Treat Gum Disease: In some cases, gum lasering is used to remove infected or diseased gum tissue.
How Gum Lasering Works
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
- Tissue Removal: A soft tissue laser or a scalpel is used to carefully remove the excess gum tissue. Lasers can cauterize as they cut, reducing bleeding and promoting faster healing.
- Reshaping: The gumline is then reshaped to create the desired contour.
- Sutures (Sometimes): In some cases, sutures may be required to hold the gum tissue in place while it heals.
Benefits of Gum Lasering
- Improved Aesthetics: A more balanced and attractive smile.
- Treatment of Gum Disease: Removal of infected tissue.
- Faster Healing (With Lasers): Lasers can promote faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
- Reduced Bleeding (With Lasers): Lasers cauterize as they cut, minimizing bleeding.
Considerations
- Cost: The cost of gum lasering can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the dentist performing it.
- Recovery: Recovery time is generally short, but some soreness or swelling may occur.
- Consultation: A consultation with a dentist or periodontist is necessary to determine if gum lasering is the right option.
