Enhance the Appearance of the Smile with Laser Gum Reshaping
Beautiful teeth are one aspect of an attractive smile, but in order to further enhance the appearance of the teeth, it is important to have healthy, attractive gums. While brushing and flossing can ensure that the gums remain healthy, there is not much that a patient can do on their own to correct a gum line that is uneven or disproportionate to the smile. Fortunately, cosmetic dentist Charles A. Porter offers his Charlotte patients laser gum reshaping to correct imperfections of the gum line. Oftentimes enhanced by porcelain veneers, which perfect the appearance of the teeth, laser gum reshaping can be the key to unlocking a patient’s ideal smile.
Candidates
Laser gum reshaping is a cosmetic procedure that is meant to improve the appearance of the gum line. Although the teeth are the primary focus of the smile, an uneven gum line or an excessive amount of gum tissue can detract focus from the teeth and compromise the appearance of the smile. Laser gum reshaping allows Dr. Porter to address these imperfections so that patients can achieve a beautiful smile that is framed by a healthy, attractive foundation of gums. For patients with good overall oral health, laser gum reshaping can be performed to correct the following conditions:
- An uneven gum line
- A “gummy” smile, or one with an excessive amount of gum tissue
- Teeth that appear to be too small
The Procedure
In the past, laser gum reshaping was performed using a scalpel. This procedure tended to be uncomfortable for patients, resulted in bleeding at the gum line, and could be difficult to produce precise results. Now, the advances of laser dentistry allow Dr. Porter to offer a gum reshaping procedure that is easier, safer, and more accurate.
Because the laser gum reshaping procedure is virtually pain-free, the procedure is performed while the patient is fully conscious. However, local anesthetic can be used to further enhance patient comfort. Using a highly powerful dental laser, Dr. Porter cuts away excessive gum tissue in order to sculpt an even and attractive gum line while revealing more tooth enamel. While the laser cuts away the gum tissue, it simultaneously seals blood vessels. Because of this, there is minimal bleeding during the procedure and the recovery time is very quick. Although there may be minor swelling or discomfort afterwards, most patients are able to return to their regular daily activities as soon as the procedure is finished.
Enhancing Treatment
While laser gum reshaping can improve the appearance of the smile by creating a better proportion between gums and tooth enamel, many patients choose to enhance these results by undergoing porcelain veneers treatment. Porcelain veneers can conceal cosmetic blemishes and improve tooth color. This treatment is often necessary to create an even, attractive appearance for enamel that has previously been concealed by gum tissue.
Contact Us
If you believe your smile is flawed because of the appearance of your gum line and would like to learn more about laser gum reshaping, Dr. Charles A. Porter is happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact us to discuss treatment and learn if you are an ideal candidate for this procedure. We look forward to hearing from you.
