Gum Sculpting

In some people the gums cover too much of the teeth (usually the front teeth) and this can leave the teeth looking too short; this can have a very negative effect on the self-confidence of people with such a “gummy smile” who may be reluctant to smile at all.

Gum contouring was originally done with a scalpel, however nowadays lasers are more often used to trim away the excessive gum overlying the teeth. This is done under local anaesthetic and is a quick and painless treatment. As well as cutting away at the gum, your dentist or gum specialist will also work to reshape the gum that is to remain in place. The healing process is relatively quick, but will be made faster if the laser device is used, as it seals the blood vessels during the procedure. Many cosmetic dentists have a soft tissue laser for this and other procedures.
 
Gum re-contouring is a permanent procedure as the gums do not normally grow back.