Laser Gum Contouring in Humble, TX

The perfect smile might be hidden by overgrown gums. A "gummy" smile refers to when your mouth has too much gum tissue and not enough visible enamel. MINT dentistry in Humble, TX is committed to helping our patients achieve a more attractive smile through comprehensive dentistry and modern procedures. Laser gum contouring uses cutting-edge technology to sculpt your gums by removing overgrown gum tissue to expose your dazzling smile. Not only can gum contouring give you a more attractive smile, but a higher gumline can also help your dental health by removing places where bacteria could become trapped, which can cause the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis). During your consultation at MINT dentistry, a board-certified professional will assess your oral health to determine if laser gum sculpting is right for you.

Laser gum contouring can create a more proportionate smile while improving your overall oral health. You are a good candidate for laser gum sculpting if you want to balance the amount of gum tissue that's visible when you smile. If your gums are overdeveloped and come down too low over your enamel, laser treatment can reveal a more even gumline. A laser gum procedure is also beneficial if you have problems with chronic oral infections or gum disease due to debris and bacteria trapped in large gum pockets. At your initial consultation, your dentist will perform an examination and craft a customized plan for your treatment that will fit both your cosmetic and oral health goals.

Cosmetic gum sculpting is an in-office dental procedure performed using local anesthetic. MINT dentistry is also equipped to perform many sedation methods to help with any fears or anxiety about getting a dental procedure. Before the treatment, your team will give you time to settle into a massaging treatment chair. You will be invited to watch your favorite television shows or listen to your favorite songs with a pair of our Beats headphones. To start the treatment, your teeth and gums will be cleaned and dried to remove excess moisture. Then, your doctor will use the laser handpiece to remove excess gum tissue, revealing your new gumline. The heat from the laser seals the tissue so incisions are not required. Once your gumline is even, we will rinse and clean your teeth and gums so you can enjoy your results. For most patients, laser gum sculpting will be completed in one appointment.

Following the reshaping procedure, we will give you aftercare instructions. Your doctor may write you a prescription for antibiotics. Your gums may be inflamed for a few weeks. If you gently brush your teeth every day and use mouthwash, your gums will heal and look normal again soon. If you notice any complications, please contact MINT dentistry immediately. Continue to schedule biannual dental cleanings so that our team can check your progress and help keep your smile great.

Elective cosmetic treatments, like laser gum contouring, are not typically covered by dental insurance. However, our team will ask your provider if any benefits are available. For out-of-pocket costs or if you aren't using dental insurance, MINT dentistry accepts many methods of payment. We will go over estimates during your consultation, plus information on medical financing to make it easier to fit your treatment into your budget. Our team is committed to helping our patients obtain the dental care they need.

Gum contouring at MINT dentistry is a great procedure for multiple reasons — removing excess gum tissue can correct the overall appearance of a "gummy" smile while also minimizing your risk of periodontal (gum) disease. Whether you want to have a more confident smile or boost the health of your gums and teeth, laser gum contouring may be a good choice for you. To learn more about laser gum contouring, contact our office in Humble, TX to schedule your consultation with a board-certified dentist.