Do you find yourself covering your mouth when you smile because of excess gum tissue or an uneven gum line? That “gummy smile” might be holding you back from expressing yourself fully, but there’s good news–gum contouring could be the simple solution you’ve been looking for. This gentle cosmetic procedure reshapes your gum tissue to expose more of your natural teeth, creating a balanced, harmonious smile you’ll be proud to show off.
At Sopris Smiles, we provide gum contouring procedures using the Solea Laser, which makes the process more comfortable and precise and has shorter recovery times. Our holistic approach to dentistry means we consider your entire health when considering treatment options, ensuring the best possible outcome for your smile and overall well-being.
If you’re wondering whether gum contouring is right for you, here are several indicators that could mean you’re a quality candidate for this procedure:
The most common reason people seek gum contouring is what’s often called a “gummy smile.” This occurs when excessive gum tissue is visible when you smile, making your teeth appear shorter than they actually are. According to most dental professionals, about 1-2 millimeters of gum tissue should show above your teeth when you smile for a balanced appearance. If more gum tissue is visible, you might benefit from contouring.
An asymmetrical gum line can detract from an otherwise beautiful smile. If your gums are higher on some teeth than others, contouring can create a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing appearance. Many patients don’t realize how much an uneven gum line affects their smile until they see the dramatic improvement after treatment.
While excess gum tissue is a common concern, some patients experience the opposite problem—gum recession. This condition exposes more of the tooth’s root surface, making teeth appear longer and potentially causing sensitivity. In these cases, gum grafting (a type of contouring that adds tissue) may be recommended to protect the exposed roots and improve appearance.
Patients who have received treatment for gum disease may have irregularities in their gum line as a result of the infection. Contouring can help rebuild a more natural and attractive appearance after successful periodontal care.
At Sopris Smiles, we utilize state-of-the-art technology, including the Solea Laser, for soft tissue procedures. Our modern approach to gum contouring allows for:
These technological advantages help ensure a more comfortable experience with better quality results for our patients.
The gum contouring procedure typically takes one appointment and begins with a thorough examination and discussion of your goals. We’ll design your new gum line and use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the process. We precisely remove and reshape gum tissue using the Solea Laser according to the planned design, and most patients report minimal discomfort both during and after the procedure.
At Sopris Smiles, we utilize the Solea Laser, a trailblazing technology that enhances the precision and comfort of gum contouring. This FDA-approved laser treatment is faster, minimally invasive, and significantly limits the discomfort typically associated with gum surgery. It can be used to gently reshape gum tissue without the need for conventional scalpels or stitches, and only requires a topical anesthetic.
The Solea Laser provides a virtually painless experience, with many patients reporting little to no discomfort during or after the procedure. Since it also minimizes bleeding and promotes faster healing, you can expect a quicker recovery time. Whether you’re dealing with excess gum tissue, an uneven gum line, or other cosmetic concerns, the Solea Laser offers an efficient and effective solution.
While gum contouring can address many cosmetic concerns, it’s not always the right solution for everyone. We may suggest alternative treatments in the following situations:
During your consultation at Sopris Smiles, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your unique dental situation to determine if gum contouring is right for you or if another treatment option would better address your concerns while ensuring your long-term oral health remains the priority.
A beautiful smile is about harmony and balance between your teeth, gums, and facial features. At Sopris Smiles, we take pride in our patient-centric approach, becoming “a new friend, not just a new dentist.” Our team, led by Dr. Golnaz Samimifar, has logged over 100 hours of continuing education and utilizes advanced technology, including our digital scans, Solea Laser, and CEREC same-day crown technology, to provide exceptional care.
Whether you’re concerned about a gummy smile or other cosmetic dental issues, we’re here to help you achieve the confident smile you deserve. With our holistic approach to dental care and membership in prestigious organizations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re committed to providing the highest quality care for your entire family. To learn more about gum contouring or schedule a consultation, call us at (303) 761-2999 or use our contact form.
