Dr. Scott Greenhalgh is equipped to address a huge range of cosmetic problems by using the best of modern dental technology. Gum reshaping is a prime example of this commitment. Through the use of laser dentistry, Dr. Greenhalgh can dramatically reshape the contours of your gums, addressing common cosmetic complaints and leaving you with a pleasant, attractive, photogenic and, above all else, tooth-heavy smile.
We'll be happy to discuss the advisability of gum re-shaping or any other cosmetic procedure at your consultation. Dr. Greenhalgh is committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic objectives.
If you live in the Denver, Colorado area and you want to speak to our cosmetic dentist about gum reshaping, please call Scott Greenhalgh, DDS today at 303-988-9060.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Gum Reshaping?
If you are less than 100 percent confident in your smile because of excess gum tissue, then you may be a good candidate for laser gum reshaping. A so-called gummy smile can make the teeth appear too small because their length is obscured by gum tissue to an abnormal extent. Even if you don’t think your teeth look too short and small, you may be unsatisfied with how prominent your gums are in your smile. This is a very common issue and one that is corrected by dentists routinely.
Because the laser procedure performed by Dr. Greenhalgh is minimally invasive, most people who want it are great candidates. Dr. Greenhalgh will first want to make sure there isn’t an underlying condition causing the gums to look inflamed and puffy – that would need to be treated. If your gummy smile is cosmetic in nature, you are likely a good candidate.
However, it is important to note that laser gum reshaping is not for everyone. There are certain factors that can disqualify you from being an ideal candidate.
These factors include the following:
- Having untreated gum disease
- Having poor oral health
- Having thin gum tissue
- Having an unhealthy habit, such as smoking
- You are currently pregnant
- You have unrealistic expectations regarding the procedure
If you are not deemed a suitable candidate for laser gum reshaping, Dr. Greenhalgh can offer safer alternatives.
What Happens During A Laser Gum Recontouring Treatment?
This safe, gentle procedure has several benefits for our patients:
- No incisions or sutures
- Minimal bleeding
- Easy recover
- Results manifest quickly
The laser cauterizes tissue, so bleeding is stopped. The laser reshapes gums by vaporizing tissue precisely. It leaves the surrounding tissue unaffected and unaltered. This allows Dr. Greenhalgh to create the most pleasing shape and even gum line. You won’t feel any pain as the laser reshapes the tissue. Most patients return to work the next day. You will need to take at least a week off from strenuous activity that raises your blood pressure. An over-the-counter NSAID should be effective for any gum swelling or inflammation you experience in the days following the procedure.
How Long Will The Laser Gum Reshaping Procedure Take?
It really depends on the amount of gum tissue and if anything else is being completed. It could take about 1-2 hours at our practice, not including the time to check in and check out with the front desk.
How Can I Prepare For The Laser Gum Reshaping Treatment?
Laser gum treatment is non-surgical, so there’s not much you need to do to prepare. You’ll come to a consultation, schedule your appointment, and then sit back and relax! There aren’t any eating or drinking restrictions on the day of your appointment. You may want to take it easy that day so you feel rested.
In addition, during your consultation with Dr. Greenhalgh, it is important to be transparent when reviewing your medical history. This will give Dr. Greenhalgh the information he needs to ensure the procedure is a success.
Will I Be Awake For The Gum Reshaping Procedure?
Yes! There’s no extended recovery from general anesthesia because only local anesthetic is required to numb your gums. You’ll be awake and able to respond to Dr. Greenhalgh’s instructions and questions. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable.
When Will I See Results?
You will notice an immediate difference, as soon as the treatment is complete! After a week, the gums will have had a chance to heal and swelling will have subsided. At that point, you’ll be looking at your final results.
How Can I Maintain My Gums After Laser Reshaping?
Gum recontouring results are permanent. Except for in the exceedingly rare cases of gum relapse, gum tissue does not grow back. You should continue to take care of your gums with brushing and flossing to prevent gingivitis and gum disease.
Is Gum Reshaping Painful?
No, laser gum reshaping is not usually a painful procedure. This is because a local anesthetic is administered beforehand to ensure your comfort. However, it is not uncommon for people who undergo laser gum reshaping to experience mild discomfort once the procedure is complete. The amount of discomfort you feel does depend on how much gum tissue was removed.
Is Laser Gum Recontouring Safe?
The diode laser used has a long-standing safety profile. Dr. Greenhalgh vaporizes gum tissue at a precise depth. There may be certain side effects, which we will fully inform you of. Such side effects mostly involve infections and poor healing, and we make sure you have complete aftercare instructions so you know how to prevent these issues.
What Are The Benefits of Laser Gum Reshaping?
Laser gum reshaping comes with a wide array of benefits that patients can enjoy.
These benefits include the following:
- It is precise - With the innovations of cutting-edge laser technology, the lasers used for gum reshaping are very precise. This gives dentists more control over the removal of gum tissue compared to traditional methods.
- It is minimally invasive - Before, dentists had to use scalpels and add sutures within your mouth. While the traditional method does see success, the risks of swelling and bleeding were relatively high. Laser gum reshaping is far less invasive than traditional surgical methods. As a result, this reduces the potential risks and can speed up the recovery process.
- There is a reduced risk of infection - Infection is one of the most dangerous risks that can occur from traditional gum surgery as it can lead to a whole slew of issues. Thanks to the minimally invasive nature of laser gum reshaping, the chances of an infection occurring are much lower.
- It can preserve healthy gum tissue - Another drawback of traditional gum surgery is how it negatively affects the surrounding tissue. Traditional gum surgery may have to remove healthy gum tissue just to access the excess. Laser gum reshaping is more precise and can easily target the necessary areas. This can help preserve the surrounding healthy gum tissue, which minimizes the risk of complications.
- It is highly versatile - The laser used for gum reshaping can be used to treat various other conditions, such as uneven gum lines and disproportionate gums. Furthermore, laser gum reshaping can also be combined with other cosmetic procedures, including crowns and veneers.
Although there are many benefits that laser gum reshaping can provide, it is always best to consult with Dr. Greenhalgh about any questions or concerns you may have.
What Are The Risks Associated With Laser Gum Reshaping?
Most types of medical treatments have risks associated with them. We can tell you that laser gum recontouring has a long-standing safety profile and is generally a low-risk procedure. Dr. Greenhalgh mitigates risk in part by making sure you are a great candidate for the treatment first. There is a low risk of:
- Allergic reactions or sensitivity to dental materials
- Relapse of gum tissue
- Results you don’t like
The vast majority of our laser gum contouring patients have a complication-free experience and love their results. Dr. Greenhalgh will ask you about your medical history and make sure you don’t have known allergies that are a concern. You’ll talk about your expectations of the results and view before-and-after images so we can make sure it’s the right procedure for you.
How Much Does Laser Gum Recontouring Cost?
The cost of laser gum reshaping varies based on the exact treatment plan. We present the cost estimate at the time of your consultation and describe all of your payment and financing options.
Is Laser Gum Reshaping Covered By Insurance?
Laser gum reshaping is highly unlikely to be covered by your dental or medical insurance. This is just about always a purely elective cosmetic procedure, and as such is not typically covered by insurers. We will provide you with a cost estimate at the time of your consultation, at which point we can also describe payment options and financing plans.
Is The Gum Reshaping Permanent?
Yes, laser gum recontouring provides permanent results. Once the tissue is gone, it’s gone for good and does not grow back. And it only takes a single laser procedure to achieve those results.
Will I Have To Change My Diet After Laser Gum Recontouring?
For the week to 10 days following the laser procedure, yes, you need to avoid spicy, crunchy foods, or foods that could poke your gums or get stuck beneath your gums. Pasta, soft vegetables, yogurt and other soft foods are recommended. Look out for seeds or other little fragments of food that can get stuck in your healing gums. Once your gums are completely healed, you’ll be able to return to your normal diet.
How Do I Clean My Teeth And Gums After The Procedure?
Once the gums have healed, you’ll be able to brush and floss like normal. While the gums are healing during the 10 days after the procedure, you’ll need to be extra gentle as you brush and floss. A solution of lukewarm water and salt can be swished and spat out to keep the tissue sanitary and soothed.
How Long Do I Have to Delay Exercise?
For at least a week to 10 days. Your gums will heal fastest when you avoid strenuous activities like weight lifting and running. However, you can perform light exercises three to four days after the procedure. You will need to consult your dentist first so they can verify it is safe to perform light activities.
Start Your Journey to Smile Rejuvenation with Gum Reshaping
You don’t have to be unhappy with your smile! Cosmetic dentistry options exist to fine-tune and rejuvenate your teeth and gums. To schedule a consultation to discuss laser gum reshaping in Lakewood, CO, please contact the practice of experienced dentist Dr. Scott Greenhalgh.
