Dr. Richard C. Ribeiro can use laser gum reshaping for cosmetic reasons or for periodontal therapy. If your gums are overshadowing your teeth, Dr. Ribeiro can use this treatment to provide a more uniform gum line and to make your teeth look larger and more proportionate. Our state-of-the-art laser at our Clarksville, TN, office reduces bleeding and pain while allowing for a faster recovery. Whether you need treatment for gum disease or you just want a more attractive smile, laser gum reshaping can transform your gums.

request an appointment

What Is Laser Gum Reshaping?

Laser gum reshaping is a procedure that uses a laser rather than a traditional surgical instruments to reshape the gums. Instead of a scalpel, the laser uses a narrow beam of light energy to precisely vaporize tissue. Not only does this technique produce less pain and bleeding, it also sterilizes the gum area at the same time it is being treated. The result is a greatly minimized risk of infection and a shorter, easier recovery.

What Can Laser Gum Reshaping Treat?

Dr. Ribeiro may use laser gum reshaping to:

  • Eliminate the excess gum tissue that has created a “gummy” smile
  • Create a more even and symmetrical gum line
  • Remove diseased and inflamed gum tissue from around the tooth root
  • Encourage healthy tissue regeneration and attachment

What Is the Procedure Like?

Whether you are seeking a more attractive and proportionate gum line or you need treatment for gum disease, the procedures are similar. In both cases, we will numb your gums to minimize any discomfort during the procedure.

For patients undergoing laser gum reshaping for cosmetic purposes, Dr. Ribeiro will use a special pen to mark the new gum line. Then, using the laser, he will carefully trim away the excess tissue.

Laser gum reshaping is the most up-to-date technique for cosmetic and restorative gum treatment.

If you have receding gums and periodontal disease, Dr. Ribeiro will work to eliminate the infected tissues. The laser targets the source of inflammation without removing any healthy tissue. He may combine this with scaling and root planing, which involves removing rough spots on the surfaces of the tooth roots to discourage bacteria from adhering. When the gum tissue regenerates, the pockets around the tooth that were caused by gum disease and recession will be reduced.

The procedure may take an hour or more to complete, depending on the extent of treatment needed. Most patients make a full recovery within just a couple weeks.

Benefits Over Traditional Gum Reshaping

Laser gum reshaping offers several benefits. Traditional gum reshaping involves surgical instruments, pain, bleeding and a long recovery. The instruments used and the excessive bleeding all increase the patient’s risk of infection. With laser gum reshaping, these complications are all minimized.

When done for cosmetic reasons, patients can see an improvement in their tooth-to-gums ratio immediately. This creates a more aesthetically pleasing smile that patients are excited to show off. An attractive smile can go a long way for improving your confidence.

When used as a treatment for periodontal disease and gum recession, patients will enjoy a healthier smile. The diseased tissues are eliminated and replaced with healthy gum tissue. This also creates a more attractive smile, and reduces the risk of tooth loss as well as other health problems.