Laser gum recontouring is a cosmetic procedure used to trim the gums that sit too low on teeth. Alternately called gum reshaping or tissue sculpting, the surgery is also to clean and reshape the gums of patients with periodontal disease.
Most laser gum recontouring surgery is done for the cosmetic purpose of improving smiles. If your teeth appear too small and it’s ruining your smile, laser gum recontouring may be right for you.
Is It Permanent?
Yes. Laser gum recontouring results are permanent. The excess gum tissue removed will not grow back.
What About Pain?
The idea of cutting gums with a laser does not present the most comforting picture. Is there pain, you ask? Let’s be honest. Pain is relative to the person experiencing it; the pain that goes along with gum surgery is no different. You are anesthetized during the procedure, but as the anesthetic wears off, you’ll experience some discomfort. It’s wise to discuss pain meds with your dentist before the surgery.
Recovery Time
The length of time it takes your gums to heal depends on the severity of gum disease if any. The average healing is anywhere from 2 – 4 weeks; deeper pockets with infection can take months to heal. Should your mouth be tender and inflamed, a soft food diet is recommended for the first few days, a longer time for seriously inflamed gums. The dentist should be able to predict healing time based on your particular case.
Is Laser Gum Recontouring Safe?
Yes. Gum contouring is considered one of the safest forms of dental surgery. As with any surgery, there is always a risk. However, based on current statistics, gum surgery has a low risk of severe bleeding. Infection is rare if patients follow post-surgery directions.
Does Dental Insurance Cover It?
Laser gum recontouring is considered a cosmetic option. As such, it is rarely, if ever, covered by dental insurance. There may be some coverage provided if the laser recontouring is done in conjunction with the treatment of gum disease.
The Periodontal Disease Exception
If you have periodontal disease (gum disease), gum contouring may be a treatment option. Your dentist will first try to treat the gum disease with nonsurgical options. Should these efforts not work, laser gum recontouring might become part of the treatment. In this case, dental insurance may cover the cost or part of it.
Cost
The cost of laser gum recontouring varies depending upon factors such as bone removal and other unanticipated factors. Laser gum recontouring, on average, costs around $3000; prices may vary depending on the complexity of your case, the expertise of the surgeon, and your location.
The Douglas Family Dentistry Experience
If you live in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or the surrounding communities, Douglas Family Dentistry offers a friendly, professional environment for patients from kids to adults and seniors. Considering laser gum recontouring? Douglas Family Dentistry is a good place to start. Call us at 480-948-3680 or go to our website to schedule a free consultation.
