One of the services that Softouch Dental Care is glad to offer you is laser dentistry. Our soft tissue laser is a subtle and powerful tool that we use for gum recontouring.
A gummy smile can be an embarrassment, making your teeth look too short, like a child’s smile. In days gone by, dentists used to use a scalpel for reshaping gums to correct a gummy smile. Now this cosmetic gum procedure is quick and easy, with virtually no recovery time. For more information, please call 703-319-6990 to schedule a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Chung.
Advantages of the Soft Tissue Laser
A gummy smile is created when gum tissue extends too far along the tooth surfaces. With gum recontouring, Dr. Chung vaporizes tiny pieces of the gums to reveal more of your teeth.
Gum recontouring is a simple procedure because:
- Little or no local anesthetic is needed. If you would like it, that’s fine. We also offer sedation dentistry to help with anxiety if you would like.
- The laser is very precise, with a small, directed beam. Dr. Chung controls its settings to remove only the gum tissue that is necessary to remove, and no more.
- The laser seals gum tissue as it works, thus preventing bleeding, which in turn prevents infection.
- There is no cutting done. The laser directs a controlled amount of heat to a pre-determined depth, which breaks the connections between gum tissue cells. This causes those cells to disappear into the air – they’re vaporized.
- There is no burning or any damage to the teeth or gums.
After your treatment, you can return to your day’s activities. The results are instantly visible and will make an enormous difference in your smile.
Am I a Candidate for Laser Gum Recontouring?
Gum recontouring is usually performed for cosmetic purposes. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your gums, then laser gum recontouring can likely help you love your smile.
This procedure is ideal for patients who have good oral health. Issues like gum disease must be treated before you can proceed with gum reshaping. Our dentist will evaluate your candidacy.
Remember that your dental health will create the foundation for your cosmetic results. It is important to start with a strong foundation in order to achieve the best possible outcome.
What Causes the Issues that Require Gum Contouring?
Many factors can cause your gums to rest too low or too high on your teeth. Similarly, there are several things that lead to an uneven or asymmetrical gum line, which some patients find undesirable.
The desire to undergo gum contouring can often be traced back to factors such as:
- Genetics
- Health issues
- Certain prescription drugs
- Gum recession
- A short upper lip
Our dentist will evaluate your gums and work to determine the cause of their irregular appearance. In most cases, laser gum contouring, sometimes known as laser tissue sculpting, is an appropriate treatment that can easily give you a more balanced and flattering gum line.
Does Gum Reshaping Hurt?
Laser gum reshaping is very well tolerated. Many patients require little or no local anesthetic. However, you can request an anesthetic if it will make you more comfortable during treatment.
Our practice also offers sedation dentistry. Options such as oral sedation and nitrous oxide can help ease your dental anxiety and allow you to pursue the cosmetic services that you desire.
What People Say About Us!
"When Dr. Chung changed my whole smile, my whole attitude changed. Thank you so much. And on top of that your whole team rocks; they are the best and I appreciate all that they did." -Fred
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How Long Do the Results of Gum Reshaping Last?
Gum reshaping results are generally permanent. It is rare for excess gum tissue to grow back once it has been removed. However, it can happen under some circumstances. For example, taking certain medications can lead to abnormal gum tissue growth. Our dentist will provide information about maintaining your results. Most patients are able to enjoy their enhanced smiles for years.
Why Choose Softouch Dental Care
At our office in Northern Virginia, we like to see only two or three patients each day, so we can give you our full attention and make sure you are comfortable during your visit. We believe you should know about the procedures you are having, and we are very happy to answer all of your questions. To schedule your initial cosmetic dentistry consultation, please call 703-319-6990 or email Softouch Dental Care today.
