What Is Laser Gum Contouring?
Laser gum contouring, also known as a laser gingivectomy, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the gumline by removing excess gum tissue with focused laser energy. Patients who feel their smile shows too much gum, or whose gumline is uneven, can benefit from this treatment. The laser precisely removes the targeted tissue, instantly revealing more of the tooth surface and creating a more balanced, proportionate smile.
Laser Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy): Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | 1 |
| Time needed | 30 to 60 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Local or topical anesthesia |
| Recovery time | About a week |
| How long it lasts | Permanent in most cases |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Who Laser Gum Contouring Is For
Gum contouring suits patients whose teeth are a normal length but are partly hidden by gum. It changes gum tissue only, so it is appropriate when the bone level underneath is already where it should be.
- A gummy smile
- Teeth that look short or square
- A gumline that is higher on one side than the other
- Gum overgrowth caused by braces or certain medications
- Planned veneers or crowns that need an even gumline first
Laser Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy) at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, laser gum contouring is performed by Dr. Alex Rubinshtein, whose expertise in laser dentistry ensures that the procedure is both precise and comfortable. The laser seals the tissue as it works, which means minimal bleeding, no need for sutures, and a significantly faster recovery compared to traditional surgical methods. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure, and many cases require no anesthesia at all.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Smile assessment. Tooth and gum proportions are measured and the new gumline is planned.
- Numbing. Local or topical anesthesia is applied.
- Marking. The planned gumline is marked for your approval.
- Laser contouring. Excess gum is removed and sealed by the laser.
- Review. The result is checked and care instructions are given.
Laser gum contouring compared with surgical contouring
| Feature | Laser | Scalpel |
|---|---|---|
| Bleeding | Minimal; tissue is sealed as it is cut | More |
| Stitches | Rarely needed | Often needed |
| Healing | Usually about a week | One to two weeks |
| Precision | Fine, gradual shaping | Good |
A millimeter of gum can change how an entire smile looks. Contouring is small in scale and large in effect.
Recovery and Aftercare
After laser treatment
The first 24 hours
- Avoid hot, spicy and crunchy foods
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed
- Brush the teeth gently and avoid the gum margin
The following days
- Use the recommended rinse
- Return to normal brushing as tenderness settles
- Wait for the gum to stabilize before veneers or crowns are made
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- Bleeding that does not stop
- Pain that increases after two days
- The gumline looks uneven once healed
Contouring as Part of a Smile Plan
Gum contouring is often performed as a standalone cosmetic treatment, but it can also be an important preparatory step before other aesthetic work. Patients planning porcelain veneers or other cosmetic treatments may benefit from contouring the gumline first to ensure ideal symmetry and proportion in the final result. For cases that require bone recontouring in addition to soft tissue adjustment, crown lengthening performed by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein may be the more appropriate procedure.
Cost and Insurance
Laser treatment is priced by the procedure, not by the use of the laser itself. You are told the fee before treatment.
What affects the cost
- The procedure being carried out
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- The number of sessions needed
- Whether the laser is used alone or alongside another treatment
Insurance usually covers a laser procedure in the same way as the conventional version of that procedure. Therapy sessions for pain relief may not be covered. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
