In recent years, laser gum contouring has become one of the most common treatments for moderate to severe gum disease.
But what are the cases that call for gum contouring and what are its features? All of these questions and more are answered for us by Dr. Mohammad Khaled Nofal, specialist in dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants, in this article.
Laser gum contouring
Laser gum contouring is a minimally invasive medical procedure that involves using laser beams to modify the appearance of the teeth and smile, primarily, or it may be used as part of dental treatment, and in either case, the procedure can be effectively successful.
How laser gum contouring is performed
This procedure is considered simple and painless, usually taking about 30 to 60 minutes, which is related to how extensive the laser gum contouring is and the number of teeth over which the gum is contoured.
Laser gum contouring involves the following steps:
Initial examination
The first and essential step involves conducting a comprehensive examination of the gums to assess the extent of the gum problem, and this may be done through the use of X-rays and other diagnostic tools.
Local anesthesia
To ensure your comfort during the procedure, the dentist will inject the gums with a local anesthetic to prevent any pain or discomfort during the surgery.
Application of the laser
The dentist applies the laser beams to the targeted area, where the laser energy effectively removes excess or problematic gum tissue, and it also helps seal the blood vessels and nerve endings to reduce bleeding and discomfort.
Read also: Immediate dental implants.
Scaling and root planing
This step is performed in some cases that suffer from a buildup of tartar and plaque, and it involves carrying out scaling and root planing and smoothing its surface to prevent further growth of bacteria.
Stimulating regrowth
The laser energy stimulates the regrowth of healthy gum tissue and helps reattach the gums to the teeth.
This regeneration process helps enhance the adhesion of the gums to the teeth, which reduces the depth of the gum pockets and prevents recurrence.
Advantages of laser gum contouring
There are many advantages to laser gum contouring, including:
A minimally invasive procedure: that is, the surgery may be almost nonexistent.
A lower likelihood of bleeding and discomfort: as the laser energy seals the blood vessels and nerve endings, which leads to reduced bleeding and pain after the surgery.
Faster recovery: as the laser energy used encourages the tissues to regenerate and recover faster.
Precision of the procedure: this allows the dentist to target the affected tissues while preserving the healthy areas of the gum tissue.
Minimal downtime: as patients often resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure.
No need for stitches or surgical sutures.
Recovery after the procedure
The following is likely after laser gum contouring:
The gums may be painful or uncomfortable for several days after the treatment, so the dentist may recommend over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen.
It is important to follow the dentist's post-procedure care instructions to avoid complications such as infection.
It may also be advisable to rinse with salt water several times a day.
It is preferable to get some rest and relaxation.
Smoking should be avoided, as it may delay the recovery process.
How to care for the gums immediately after the laser contouring procedure
In the first two days after the treatment, cleaning the gum line should be avoided, because it will be sensitive at first, that is, immediately after the treatment.
Soft foods should also be eaten for a few days, such as pasta, cooked vegetables, eggs, soup, yogurt, and juices, and some foods that may cause irritation to the treated area should be avoided, such as:
Spicy or acidic foods: these foods can cause discomfort and irritation in the treated area.
Hard or crunchy foods: it may be difficult to chew foods such as nuts, potato chips, and hard candy, and they may cause damage to the treated area.
Hot foods and beverages: because they can increase inflammation and may cause discomfort.
Sticky or chewy foods: such as caramel or gum, as they can stick to the treated area and interfere with recovery.
The dentist will provide you with specific post-treatment instructions based on your individual needs and the type of laser treatment you received.
What is the correct way to care for the gums after they have healed?
Dr. Mohammad Nofal recommends the following for gum care:
Brushing the teeth twice a day, being sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Using dental floss once a day.
Brushing the teeth along the gum line gently and at a 45-degree angle, upward on the upper teeth and downward on the lower teeth.
How long do the results of laser gum contouring last?
The results of this procedure are considered permanent, that is, the gum tissue will not grow again after it is removed with the laser.
Dr. Mohammad Khaled Nofal provides laser gum contouring service with the latest techniques, as it is considered the most precise and safe cosmetic method; he uses a specific type of laser at a certain power and directs it to the gums to cut the tissue in specific areas of the gums with high efficiency and precision so as not to cause any pain or complications.
Sources
- Dynasty Tower Dental. (2023, August 4). Laser gum contouring | Benefits and Risks, procedure, cost. https://dynastytowerdental.ca/laser-gum-contouring/
- Nobury, I. (2023, December 6). What is a gum lift or gum laser surgery? Vogue Dental Studios. https://voguedentalstudios.com.au/blog/what-is-gum-lift-laser-surgery
- NYC Smile Design. (2023, November 20). Gum Lift & Recontouring Manhattan, NY | Long lasting smiles. https://www.nycsmiledesign.com/gum-lift-gum-line-recontouring/
- Gum Lifts Cairns | Future Dental. (2023, May 15). Future Dental. https://www.futuredental.com.au/gum-lifts
