Laser Gum Recontouring

What Is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile is characterized by excess gum tissue covering the surface of the upper teeth. This is most noticeable when a person smiles, as a large portion of gum tissue may be visible below their upper lip. Depending on the individual, a gummy smile may have been caused by the way the teeth naturally grew in, the growth of excess gum tissue, or the lips lifting high above the gum line when smiling.

While this is typically only an aesthetic concern, many people feel self-conscious about their gummy smile due to their smile proportions looking abnormal. For those wanting a more balanced smile appearance, our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Andrew Skasko, performs laser gum recontouring at Elite Dental to reduce excess gum tissue. Visit the sections below for more information about how a gummy smile can be treated through laser gum recontouring.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Gum Recontouring?

Laser gum recontouring, also known as crown lengthening or gum reshaping, can provide dramatic improvement for those wanting to treat a gummy smile. While the treatment is customized for every individual based on their unique needs, laser gum recontouring can generally offer the following benefits:

  • More even gum line for a symmetrical smile appearance
  • Improved tooth size, no longer looking short from excess gum coverage
  • Better proportions between the teeth and gums
  • No cutting or stitches needed due to the advanced laser technology
  • Faster, more comfortable recovery compared to traditional gum surgery

To ensure the utmost precision during treatment, Dr. Skasko utilizes the Biolase Waterlase iPlus® system. This all-tissue laser can effectively treat hard and soft tissues to provide the best possible outcome, while making the procedure more comfortable than traditional methods of gum recontouring.

Patient Testimonial
Gum Lift Procedure Patient Testimonial – Elite Dental – Andrew E. Skasko, DDS – New Albany, OH

What Does Laser Gum Surgery Involve?


Dr. Skasko often includes gum recontouring as part of the smile makeover process. He begins by performing a smile design consult to first determine how the teeth will look with any cosmetic enhancements, such as porcelain veneers or crowns, and then establishes how much of a gum lift is necessary to achieve the desired outcome. Once your treatment plan has been finalized, Dr. Skasko will utilize our state-of-the-art technology, the Waterlase iPlus® laser, to precisely remove excess gum tissue to create a more proportional and even gum line.

As a cosmetic gum procedure, Dr. Skasko will work with you every step of the way to ensure you are happy with your projected results. During the consultation process, he may use digital smile design software to analyze your needs and simulate your expected results. This helps patients visualize their treatment plan and creates the opportunity for them to request any adjustments as needed.

Is Laser Gum Surgery Painful?

To maximize your comfort during laser gum surgery, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the area being treated. While traditional methods of cosmetic gum removal can be uncomfortable, laser recontouring with the Waterlase iPlus® system offers a minimally invasive alternative that produces minimal discomfort. Our team strives to make your gummy smile treatment as painless as possible and will check with you throughout treatment to ensure you are still comfortable.

What Can I Expect in My Recovery from Laser Gum Recontouring?

By utilizing a soft tissue laser to contour your gum line, the healing process should be relatively quick with very little discomfort. Patients typically need little to no downtime after their procedure, but it can take several days for gum sensitivity and tenderness to subside. We will provide you with post-operative guidelines to help you navigate the recovery process.

How Much Does Laser Gum Treatment Cost?

The cost of laser gum recontouring will vary for each patient based on the details of their treatment plan. The complexity of the procedure and amount of gum reshaping needed will both affect how much the total cost will be. Our team will provide you with a personalized quote to help you understand what to expect with your treatment.