A balanced smile shows just the right amount of teeth and gums. For some people, extra gum tissue covers too much of the tooth, creating a “gummy smile.” If this sounds familiar, you may wonder whether there’s a gentle way to reshape your gumline for a more even, attractive smile. At South Bay cosmetic dental practice , we offer laser gum contouring with Waterlase as part of our smile makeover options.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile happens when more gum tissue than tooth is visible while smiling. This can make the teeth look shorter or uneven, even if they are perfectly healthy. While it may not affect function, it can impact dental aesthetics and overall confidence. Fortunately, this is often a cosmetic issue that can be safely addressed with modern techniques.
- Common causes include excess gum coverage, uneven gumlines, or a short tooth-to-gum ratio.
- Sometimes, a gummy smile can also result from worn teeth or a lip that moves higher than average when smiling.
Your dentist will first determine the cause of your gummy smile so that you receive the proper treatment approach to restore balance and improve dental aesthetics.
How Waterlase Laser Gum Contouring Works
Traditional gum contouring methods often relied on scalpels or electrosurgery, which could be invasive. With laser dentistry (Waterlase), gum recontouring is now more precise, comfortable, and efficient.
- Waterlase combines laser energy with a gentle stream of water to reshape gum tissue.
- Patients typically experience less bleeding and swelling compared to conventional techniques.
- The precision of the laser helps create even gumlines that enhance natural tooth proportions.
This advanced approach allows for quicker recovery times and a smoother overall experience.
When Laser Gum Contouring Helps—and When It Doesn’t
Laser gum contouring works best when excess or uneven gum tissue is the primary concern. In other cases, additional treatment may be needed to achieve the best result. Ideal candidates include people with short-looking teeth due to extra gum coverage or those with uneven gumlines. If the gummy smile is caused by worn teeth, a deep bite, or jaw position, your dentist may recommend restorative treatment, orthodontics, or other care in addition to gum contouring.
At South Bay Prosthodontics, your dentist will explain all options so you understand which treatment path is most effective.
Is Gum Contouring Right for Me?
Determining whether you are a good candidate involves thoroughly evaluating your teeth, gums, and smile line. Your dentist will measure tissue levels and bone support to ensure safe and lasting results.
Mild-to-Moderate Gummy Smile From Excess Gum Tissue
When healthy gums cover too much enamel, laser contouring can quickly reveal more of your natural tooth surface.
- This approach is great for patients needing small, even reductions across several teeth.
- It often pairs well with whitening or bonding for a refreshed smile.
Uneven Gumlines Around One or a Few Teeth
Sometimes, one tooth looks shorter than its neighbors due to a lower gum margin. In this case, contouring just one or two teeth can restore symmetry.
- This is especially helpful before placing veneers or crowns.
- The result is a straighter-looking, more balanced smile.
When Another Treatment May Be Better
If the gummy smile is due to bite alignment or significant tooth wear, gum contouring alone may not solve the problem.
- Orthodontics may be recommended to improve the bite.
- Restorative care such as crowns or veneers may rebuild proper tooth length.
- A customized plan ensures that both function and aesthetics are addressed.
Our Planning Process at South Bay Prosthodontics
We take a comprehensive approach to every smile makeover. Gum contouring is carefully planned so the final result looks natural, healthy, and in harmony with the rest of your features.
Smile Analysis and Gumline Symmetry
We start with detailed photography and measurements, which allow us to map the most attractive gumline heights for your front teeth. Ideal gum “zenith” positions create a natural scallop to the smile, and adjustments are made conservatively to protect long-term stability.
Coordinating With Veneers or Bonding
Gum contouring is often the first step before cosmetic restorations. By setting the gumline in the right position, treatments like porcelain veneers can be crafted for the best fit and appearance. Contouring ensures veneers do not look bulky, while the final shaping and shade matching are completed after gums heal.
Interdisciplinary Care When Needed
For more complex cases, we work closely with orthodontists and periodontists to ensure every step supports your final smile. This team-based approach gives you the most predictable, long-lasting results.
What to Expect During Your Visit
A typical gum contouring appointment is straightforward. Most patients are surprised at how easy and comfortable the process feels.
- We confirm the treatment plan and mark the new gumline.
- Waterlase gently reshapes the tissue with minimal discomfort.
- The area is rinsed, smoothed, and checked for symmetry.
- Aftercare instructions are reviewed before you leave.
Many people return to normal activities the same day.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery after laser gum contouring is usually smooth. Mild tenderness may occur for a day or two, but most patients feel back to normal quickly.
First 24–72 Hours
You may notice mild sensitivity as the gums settle. Simple home care helps you stay comfortable.
- Choose soft foods and avoid spicy or crunchy items.
- Over-the-counter pain relief is often all that’s needed.
- Avoid pulling on your lip to check the area while it heals.
Home Care and Hygiene
Good hygiene ensures gums heal smoothly and stay healthy.
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush.
- Use the recommended rinse to keep the area clean.
- Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash until healing is complete.
Follow-Ups and Timing for Veneers or Bonding
If veneers or bonding are planned, we wait until gums are fully healed before final placement. This ensures a precise and natural result.
Results, Risks, and Longevity
Most patients notice immediate cosmetic improvement after gum contouring. Results become more refined as gums stabilize.
Expected Results
A balanced gumline often transforms the appearance of the entire smile. It does this by:
- Enhancing tooth symmetry
- Making teeth look longer and more proportional
- Complementing whitening, veneers, or bonding for a complete makeover
Potential Risks and How They Are Minimized
While uncommon, risks may include temporary sensitivity or minor tissue rebound. Careful planning helps reduce these possibilities. Conservative tissue removal protects long-term results while regular follow-ups ensure healing is progressing as expected.
Cost Factors and Financing
The cost of gum contouring varies based on the number of teeth involved, whether bone adjustment is needed, and whether the treatment is combined with a smile makeover. We provide clear estimates and offer options to make treatment affordable.
- Single-tooth contouring costs less than treating multiple teeth.
- Combining the procedure with veneers or orthodontics may affect total fees.
- For patients with dental anxiety, sedation dentistry is available to ensure comfort.
FAQs
Here are answers to common questions patients ask about laser gum contouring.
Transform Your Gummy Smile With South Bay Prosthodontics
If you’ve been hiding your smile because of excess gum tissue, laser gum contouring with Waterlase could be the solution you’re looking for. Our team in Torrance combines advanced technology with a patient-first approach to create natural, lasting results. Your most confident smile is closer than you think, call us today at (310) 378-9261.
