Many individuals suffer from showing excessive or uneven amounts of gum tissue when they smile. This condition can greatly detract from having an otherwise great-looking smile. With the technology available today, a “gummy smile” is no longer an obstacle to achieving an outstanding and aesthetic new look.

Call (575) 888-8955 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about laser gum recontouring in Silver City.

What Causes a “Gummy Smile”?

A variety of factors can cause an overgrowth or asymmetry of gum tissue. Genetics, medications, and poor oral health are the more common factors. In many instances the gum tissue can predominate the smile, leaving the overall impression of seeing gums rather than teeth.

The most common reasons people develop a gummy smile include:

• Genetic gum overgrowth, where inherited traits cause thicker or taller gum tissue to cover more of the teeth than usual.
• Medication-related changes, such as certain prescriptions that can lead to swollen or enlarged gums over time.
• Poor oral health, where inflammation from plaque buildup or gum disease makes the tissue puffy and more noticeable when you smile.
• Altered tooth eruption, in which teeth remain partially covered by gum tissue and appear shorter than they truly are.
• Upper lip position and movement, where a high or hyperactive lip lifts more than average and exposes additional gum.

In other cases, the teeth themselves may not have fully erupted, or the upper lip may lift higher than average when you smile, exposing more tissue than you would like. Some people notice that their gummy smile is more pronounced in photos or under bright lighting and begin to feel self-conscious in social or professional situations. During an evaluation at our Silver City office, we look not only at how much gum is showing, but also at your bite, tooth shape, and lip movement so we can identify whether laser gum contouring, orthodontics, or a combination of treatments will give you the most balanced result.

How Do We Correct a Gummy Smile in Silver City?

Using soft tissue lasers like an artist’s brush, we can reshape the position and architecture of your gum tissue. With little or no anesthetic, the laser literally vaporizes the unwanted tissue. Patients can return to their work and regular activities immediately, with full recovery in less than a few days.

During a typical laser gum recontouring visit, you can expect several key steps:

• Detailed smile planning to measure your teeth, review photos, and map out the ideal new gum line before any reshaping begins.
• Local comfort measures, such as a small amount of anesthetic, to keep you relaxed while the soft tissue laser is used around your teeth.
• Precise tissue reshaping, where the laser gently removes and contours only the areas that need adjustment for a more even smile line.
• Immediate sealing of vessels, which helps limit bleeding and reduces the need for sutures so you can speak and eat more comfortably afterward.
• Clear home-care instructions before you leave, so you know how to protect the treated area and support healing over the next several days.

Benefits of Laser Gum Recontouring

Laser gum recontouring offers both cosmetic and health-related advantages for people who feel their gums draw attention away from their teeth. By gently reshaping the tissue, the procedure can reveal more of each tooth and create a more even, symmetrical gum line. Many patients find that this change helps them feel more confident when they talk, laugh, or have photos taken, especially at community events, school functions, or work gatherings in and around Silver City. Improving the frame around your teeth can also enhance the overall results of whitening, veneers, or other cosmetic treatments.

Beyond appearance, there can be functional benefits as well. Excess gum tissue can create small pockets that trap food and bacteria, which may make it harder to keep certain areas clean. By smoothing and reshaping these areas, it can become easier to brush and floss effectively, which supports long-term gum health. Because the laser is so precise, we can focus only on the tissue that needs to be adjusted, helping preserve healthy tissue and allowing most people to return home and resume normal routines in Silver City with minimal disruption.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Treatment?

Laser gum recontouring is often a good option for adults and older teens who are generally healthy and unhappy with the amount or shape of gum tissue visible when they smile. During your consultation, we review your medical history, current medications, and any previous dental work to be sure this approach is appropriate. We also examine the way your teeth come together, since concerns with your bite or jaw position may require orthodontic care in addition to gum reshaping. People who take blood thinners or who have certain medical conditions may still be able to have treatment, but extra planning and coordination with their physician is sometimes needed.

What to Expect After Your Procedure

After laser gum recontouring, most people notice that the treated areas feel slightly tender or swollen for a short time. We review how to care for your gums before you leave the office so you know exactly what to do when you get home. This often includes sticking to softer foods for a day or two, avoiding very hot or spicy items, and using a gentle brushing technique around the treated area while it heals. If you have questions once you are home in Silver City, our team is available by phone to clarify instructions or adjust recommendations as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Laser Gum Recontouring Procedure Take, and What Is the Recovery Time?

The duration of the laser gum recontouring procedure depends on the extent of the treatment. Typically, it can range from one to two hours. The recovery time is relatively short compared to traditional surgery. You may experience mild soreness or swelling for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a day or two. Full healing of the gum tissue usually occurs within a week or two. We will provide detailed post-operative instructions to facilitate a smooth recovery and help support optimal healing.

Is Laser Gum Recontouring a Permanent Solution, and How Do I Maintain My Results?

Yes, laser gum recontouring provides a lasting solution for reshaping your gum line. The removed gum tissue does not typically grow back. However, maintaining your results requires diligent oral hygiene practices. This includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental check-ups and cleanings at Sherman Dental. Consistent oral hygiene will help reduce the risk of gum disease and support the long-lasting beauty of your reshaped gum line. In some cases, minor touch-ups may be needed after several years, based on individual gum health and changes.

Contact Sherman Dental to learn how we utilize soft tissue lasers in various treatments. In most of our Smile Makeovers, the gum tissue will be laser corrected for the ideal look. For periodontal or poor oral health conditions, the laser is used to remove tissue that traps bacteria around the teeth. Additionally, many oral lesions or ulcers can be treated with the laser in order to help eliminate pain and support faster recovery.