Laser Frenectomies for Gummy Smile Surgery

Laser frenectomies offer a precise, comfortable, and highly effective way to correct this. At Archer Dental, we use advanced dental lasers to reshape the gums with minimal discomfort and a much easier healing process compared to traditional surgical methods.

What is a gummy smile?

A gummy smile occurs when more gum tissue than usual is visible above the upper teeth. This can happen for several reasons. In some people, the gums simply extend farther down over the teeth, making the teeth appear shorter than they really are. Others may have a shorter upper lip or a lip that lifts higher when smiling. In some cases, the natural position of the teeth or jaw can also contribute to a smile that shows more gum.

Although a gummy smile is not harmful, many patients feel self conscious about it. Even small adjustments to the gumline can create a major difference in how balanced and confident the smile appears.

When we evaluate a gummy smile, we look at the shape of the gums, the length of the teeth, and how the lips move. Understanding these details helps us determine whether a laser frenectomy, gum contouring, or a combination of treatments will offer the best result.

How do I fix a gummy smile?

Treating a gummy smile begins with identifying whether excess gum tissue is the main cause. When it is, a laser frenectomy or laser gum reshaping provides a simple, effective solution. The concentrated light energy gently removes and reshapes the gum tissue to reveal more of the natural tooth underneath. This treatment helps the smile look more proportionate without altering the teeth themselves.

Some patients only need a small adjustment to even out the gumline, while others choose a more noticeable reshaping to create a fuller, brighter smile. The procedure is highly customizable, allowing us to refine the result so it fits your facial features and aesthetic goals.

Because the treatment focuses only on excess tissue, the teeth remain untouched and healthy. Many patients choose to pair this treatment with whitening or other cosmetic options once the gums have healed, creating a refreshed, harmonious smile.

Why are laser frenectomies safer and easier to heal from?

Laser frenectomies offer a much more comfortable experience than traditional surgical methods that rely on cutting and stitching. The dental laser works with remarkable precision. As it removes excess tissue, it simultaneously seals the area, which reduces bleeding and minimizes inflammation. This also lowers the risk of infection and shortens the healing time significantly.

Most patients describe the procedure as quick and far gentler than expected. Because there are no sutures and very little swelling, day to day activities are rarely interrupted. Discomfort afterward is generally mild, and many patients return to normal routines the same day.

The controlled nature of the laser also means that only the intended tissue is affected. Healthy tissue is preserved, which results in a cleaner overall shape and more predictable healing. For patients seeking a cosmetic improvement without the stress of traditional surgery, laser frenectomies provide a safe, reliable, and efficient solution.

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