Gingivectomy in Frisco, TX

General dentists Dr. Nam Kim and Dr. Minho Chang are experienced in performing gingivectomies for patients that need to reshape their gums to improve the appearance and health of their smile. At Luminous Dental Studio, we use the Gemini™ diode laser to provide our patients with the most up-to-date treatment options that heal faster, are less invasive, and cause less discomfort in comparison to methods of the past. The laser will precisely trim the area of the gum that is obstructing part of the tooth from view. A gingivectomy (also known as crown lengthening) will expose more of the top of the tooth to enhance the look of the gumline or to eliminate a section of the gum for restorative purposes. We are proud to offer laser dental treatment to ensure that your dental experience is comfortable and positive.

You may consider crown lengthening for cosmetic reasons if you want to scale back a "gummy" smile. It may also be performed if not enough of your tooth is visible to support a dental crown, filling, or other restoration. To learn more, schedule a gingivectomy consultation at Luminous Dental Studio in Frisco, TX.

Candidates for laser crown lengthening are in good general health, especially in terms of the gums. Conditions, like periodontal (gum) disease, may need to be treated before crown lengthening is performed. Most often, this laser treatment is performed for cosmetic reasons to correct a "gummy" smile by removing excess gum tissue to improve the ratio of visible enamel to gums. This would give you a higher, more even gumline.

On the other hand, you may also need gum recontouring for a restoration. Dr. Kim or Dr. Chang may need to reveal more of the tooth in order to place a filling, crown, or bridge.

With our laser, Dr. Kim or Dr. Chang can recontour your gumline with or without an anesthetic. With this state-of-the-art laser, your appointment time should be quick. Other benefits of having a laser gingivectomy are less bleeding before and after the treatment, a decrease in the risk of infection because of the way the gum is sealed, faster recovery time, and no damage will be done to the surrounding gum tissue.

After your gingivectomy, your mouth may be sore and swollen. Cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers can help minimize your discomfort. It may be easier to follow a liquid or soft food diet for several days as your gums heal. You should carefully clean your mouth with mouthwash and soft brushing but avoid flossing. In some cases, you may need to schedule a follow-up appointment at Luminous Dental Studio. Dr. Kim or Dr. Chang will continuously check your gums and oral health at your dental exams.

Does a gingivectomy hurt?

No, gingivectomies aren’t painful, and most patients don’t experience discomfort during the procedure. Before they begin, Dr. Kim or Dr. Chang will completely numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic. During recovery, some patients can experience mild soreness, swelling, or numbness, which typically goes away as you heal. In some cases, a gingivectomy can be comfortably performed without anesthesia.

Are gingivectomies safe?

Yes, they are for most patients. A gingivectomy is only minimally invasive and very safe and, with proper post-procedure oral hygiene, has little to no risk of complications. The laser seals the gums, resulting in less bleeding, a lower chance for infection, faster recovery time, and no damage to the surrounding tissue.

How long does it take to get a gingivectomy?

A typical gingivectomy lasts about 45 – 60 minutes.

Can I eat after a gingivectomy?

Patients should wait to eat until the anesthetic wears off and the sensation has returned. Dr. Kim and Dr. Chang may recommend softer, blander foods or a high protein liquid diet for the first 3 – 5 days after surgery.

To transform your smile or rehabilitate a decayed tooth with a crown, you may need to have a laser gingivectomy to scale back the amount of tissue that is present on the gumline. Learn more about crown lengthening at Luminous Dental Studio. By removing gum tissue, it is possible to improve the appearance of a "gummy" smile or prepare your teeth for restoration. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim or Dr. Chang today at our office in Frisco, TX.