Laser gum reshaping, also called laser gum contouring or gingivectomy, uses a dental laser to precisely remove or sculpt excess gum tissue for a more balanced, even smile. It is commonly used for a gummy smile, uneven gumlines, or to expose more tooth before cosmetic work. The laser seals tissue as it works, so bleeding is minimal and healing is often quick, usually within a week or two. It is a common cosmetic procedure, but gum health and the underlying cause must be assessed first, ideally alongside periodontal treatment planning if needed.
A gummy smile is common and not a health problem. Reshaping is cosmetic unless excess tissue is making cleaning difficult or covering decay.
Gum contouring is often paired with porcelain veneers or composite bonding so teeth and gums look proportional.
Some patients brighten results with teeth whitening once healing is complete. A careful dentist in Kitsilano will check whether bone levels allow reshaping or whether another approach is needed.
Who Is a Candidate?
- Gummy smile from excess gum tissue
- Uneven gumline across front teeth
- Short-looking teeth covered by gum
- Overgrown gums from medication or orthodontics
- Need for more tooth exposure before restorations
When Lasers Alone Are Not Enough
- Gummy smile caused by jaw position
- Upper lip hyperactivity
- Bone that sits too close to the gumline, which may need crown lengthening surgery
The Procedure Step by Step
- Consultation: smile analysis, photos, and gum measurements.
- Planning: the ideal gumline is mapped.
- Numbing: local anesthetic is applied.
- Laser contouring: excess tissue is removed precisely.
- Review: you see the new gumline.
- Healing: gums settle over one to two weeks.
Laser vs Scalpel Gum Contouring
- Bleeding: laser minimal; scalpel more.
- Healing: laser often quicker.
- Precision: both precise in skilled hands.
- Stitches: laser usually none; scalpel may need them.
Recovery Tips
- Eat soft, cool foods for a few days
- Avoid spicy and acidic foods
- Brush gently near the area
- Use salt water rinses if advised
- Avoid smoking
Real Patient Scenarios
The gummy smile. A patient felt her smile showed too much gum. Laser contouring revealed more tooth and balanced her smile.
The veneer prep. Another patient had gum reshaping before veneers for symmetrical results.
The jaw cause. One patient’s gummy smile came from jaw position, so laser contouring alone was not recommended.
Common Mistakes
- Choosing reshaping without checking bone levels
- Eating crunchy foods right after
- Ignoring gum disease first
- Expecting gums to regrow if over-trimmed
Myths
Myth: Laser gum reshaping is painful. Most patients feel mild tenderness.
Myth: Gums grow back after contouring. Properly contoured tissue usually stays stable.
Myth: It fixes every gummy smile. The cause determines treatment.
Cosmetic Gum Care
Your care should be managed by licensed dentists registered with the College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia (CDSBC). Enhance Dental Centre is one of the best and most trusted clinics in Kitsilano and across Vancouver, with a 5.0 Google rating from over 270 patient reviews. Whether you need a Dentist in Kitsilano or a Dental Office in Vancouver, our team is accepting new patients and CDCP patients.
Our address is 2219 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2E4. New patients can phone 604-210-3603 and existing patients 604-733-1022, or send an email to care@enhancedentalcentre.com. We are open Monday and Tuesday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM including evening appointments, and Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Our Family Dentist in Vancouver BC team is happy to answer questions before your visit.
Long-Term Tips
- Brush gently with a soft brush
- Floss daily
- Keep regular cleanings
- Avoid tobacco
Safety Note
This article is general information. Gum reshaping should follow a thorough exam of gum and bone health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does laser gum reshaping hurt?
It is done with local anesthetic, and soreness afterward is usually mild.
How long does healing take?
Typically one to two weeks.
Are results permanent?
Usually long lasting when gums are healthy.
Can laser contouring fix uneven gums?
Yes, if the cause is excess tissue.
Is it covered by insurance?
Cosmetic procedures are often not covered, but medically needed cases may be.
Conclusion
Laser gum reshaping gently sculpts gum tissue for a balanced smile. It works best when excess tissue, not jaw position, is the cause. A careful assessment ensures natural, lasting results.