What is a gum lift or gum laser surgery?

Gum laser surgery, also known as a gum lift, is a modern and minimally invasive option to treat gum disease and improve overall gum health. Growing in popularity, particularly in cosmetic dentistry, more and more people are exploring the option of gum lifts to improve the aesthetics of their smile.

I remember when I first started in the dentistry field around 8 years ago. In that period, we would have the occasional patient come in for treatment options to correct their gummy smile. Other patients didn’t even know they had a gummy smile or uneven gum line. In that period, we would manually surgically remove the excess gum with very precise and thorough measurement and planning. These days, it is simply removed with a special laser resulting in shorter downtime and a more seamless recovery. 

Here, our lovely patient shows off her smile makeover results after coming to us to address a gummy smile. She selected a combination of gum laser surgery and veneers to accomplish her smile goals.

With Gum Laser Surgery growing in popularity as well as more social media presence with individuals becoming more aware of their aesthetics, the art of gum laser surgery has definitely been perfected over the years. 

Unlike traditional methods that involve cutting and suturing, gum laser surgery utilizes focused laser to remove infected or inflamed gum tissue while promoting the regeneration of healthy tissue. This approach offers several advantages, including reduced discomfort, faster healing times, and enhanced precision.

Step 1: Initial Examination

Before recommending gum laser surgery, your dentist or periodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your gums to assess the extent of gum disease. X-rays and other diagnostic tools may be used to determine the severity of the condition.

Step 2: Local Anesthesia

To ensure your comfort during the procedure, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area being treated. This helps prevent any pain or discomfort during the surgery.

Step 3: Laser Application

A specialised dental laser is used for the surgery. The laser emits concentrated energy in the form of light, which is targeted at the infected gum tissue. The energy from the laser effectively removes the diseased tissue while sealing blood vessels and nerve endings to minimize bleeding and discomfort.

Step 4: Removal of Diseased Tissue

The focused laser energy gently vaporizes the infected gum tissue. This process is precise and minimally invasive, sparing healthy tissue and promoting faster healing.

Step 5: Scaling and Root Planing (if needed)

After removing the infected tissue, the dentist may perform scaling and root planing. This involves removing tartar and plaque buildup from the tooth roots and smoothing the root surfaces to prevent further bacterial growth.

Step 6: Stimulating Regrowth

The laser energy stimulates the regrowth of healthy gum tissue and aids in the reattachment of the gum to the teeth. This regeneration process helps form a tight seal that reduces the depth of gum pockets and prevents reinfection.

Step 7: Closure and Recovery

As the laser treatment promotes sealing and clotting, sutures are usually not required. The recovery period is typically shorter compared to traditional gum surgery, with many patients experiencing minimal discomfort.

There are several advantages to gum lifts for your smile goals:

• Minimally invasive: Laser surgery is less traumatic to the gums compared to traditional methods.
• Reduced bleeding and discomfort: Laser energy seals blood vessels and nerve endings, leading to less bleeding and post-operative pain.
• Faster healing: The targeted approach encourages faster tissue regeneration and healing.
• Precise treatment: Laser technology allows for precision in targeting infected tissue while sparing healthy areas.
• Minimal downtime: Patients often resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.

Gum laser surgery is a groundbreaking approach to treating gum disease that offers numerous benefits for patients seeking effective and minimally invasive treatment. By understanding the procedure, recovery process, and advantages it offers, individuals can make informed decisions about their oral health and well-being.

Remember, if you're considering gum laser surgery, consult a qualified dentist who can evaluate your condition and provide personalized guidance. Your journey toward improved gum health starts with a thorough consultation and a trusted dental professional by your side.