Gum Recontouring – Tucson, AZ

What Is Gum Recontouring?

Gum recontouring is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that can make your teeth look larger and more symmetrical. Using the Biolase EZLase soft tissue dental laser, Dr. Fitzgerald will remove excess gum tissue that may be making your smile look too “gummy” or your teeth look too short or stubby. The results of this treatment are not only permanent, but they also can improve your oral health by making it easier to brush and floss your teeth, thereby reducing your risk of gum disease and its associated dangers.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Gum Recontouring?

If you have excess gum tissue that makes your teeth look too small or your smile too gummy, or if your gum tissue is attached to your teeth asymmetrically, you may be a good candidate for gum recontouring. First, you’ll need a consultation with Dr. Fitzgerald to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy. As long as your smile is in good health, you should qualify for treatment. If any preliminary treatment is required, we can schedule your procedure once that is completed.

The Gum Recontouring Treatment Process

The first step in the gum recontouring process is to see Dr. Fitzgerald for a consultation. There, she will review your medical and oral health history. If you are in good health, she will schedule your procedure, or if you need any preliminary oral health care, she can schedule that first.

Once your mouth is healthy enough to undergo treatment, you will be scheduled for your procedure. Typically, it can be done in just one appointment. At Sweet Smiles, Dr. Fitzgerald uses the Biolase EZLase soft tissue dental laser for gum recontouring. This device uses concentrated light to remove excess gum tissue, which means there’s no need for a scalpel and in most cases no need for sutures, either. In fact, because the laser cauterizes the gums as it works, you are less likely to develop an infection while healing, and healing times are often much faster and more comfortable than when sutures are used.

Following treatment, most patients find that any discomfort is well managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, however Dr. Fitzgerald will provide you with a detailed list of aftercare instructions to help you heal as safely and comfortably as possible.

Benefits of Gum Recontouring

In addition to improving the appearance of a gummy smile and making teeth appear larger, gum recontouring has oral health benefits. With less superfluous gum tissue, the gums become easier to keep clean, making flossing more effective and reducing your risk of periodontal disease. This in turn keeps your teeth healthy, reducing your risk of gum recession which could eventually lead to tooth loss.