Why We Use Laser Gum Recontouring — Not Scalpels
The traditional method of gum recontouring involved cutting with a scalpel and closing the wound with sutures. Our Queens dental office uses a soft tissue laser instead — and the advantages for patients are significant:
- Greater precision: The laser targets only the tissue that needs to be removed, leaving surrounding healthy tissue completely undisturbed
- Minimal bleeding: The laser cauterizes (seals blood vessels) as it works, dramatically reducing bleeding during and after the procedure
- Built-in sterilization: As the laser removes tissue, it simultaneously destroys bacteria in the area, reducing the risk of post-procedure infection
- Faster healing: Because there's no incision to close, the laser creates conditions that allow gum tissue to heal significantly faster than traditional methods
- No sutures needed: The laser seals the tissue as it works — no stitches required
- Less post-procedure discomfort: Most patients experience only mild tenderness for a few days rather than the soreness associated with traditional surgery
For patients who feel anxious about any dental procedure, our Queens office also offers sedation dentistry options including nitrous oxide for added comfort.
What to Expect During & After Your Gum Recontouring Procedure
During the procedure:Before treatment begins, local anesthesia is applied to completely numb the gum area being treated. Once you're comfortable, our Queens dentist uses the soft tissue laser to carefully reshape the gum line according to the treatment plan developed at your consultation. Most gum recontouring procedures are completed in a single visit and take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on how much of the gum line is being treated. You will feel no pain during the procedure.
Immediately after:Some mild tenderness and sensitivity in the treated area is normal for the first few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are usually sufficient for managing any post-procedure discomfort.
Recovery tips:
- Eat soft foods for the first few days — avoid anything hard, crunchy, or spicy that could irritate the healing tissue
- Rinse gently with warm salt water to keep the area clean
- Brush carefully around the treated gum line — your dentist will advise on technique
- Avoid tobacco, which slows healing and increases infection risk
- Most patients return to normal activity the same day or the next day
Full healing of the gum tissue takes a few weeks, at which point the final, balanced gum line becomes clearly visible. Results are permanent for most patients, though underlying factors like gum disease or certain medications can affect gum tissue over time.
Is Gum Recontouring Right for You?
Gum recontouring is suitable for patients who are in good overall oral health with no active gum disease or untreated decay. Before performing any cosmetic procedure, we'll conduct a thorough dental exam to confirm your gums and teeth are healthy and ready for treatment. If we identify any underlying issues — such as periodontal disease — those will be addressed first.
During your consultation, we'll discuss your smile goals, show you what the result will look like, and explain exactly how much gum tissue will be reshaped. You'll have a clear picture of the outcome before any treatment begins.
