Lasering gums for bigger teeth
Gum contouring reshapes excess gum tissue to reveal more crown, but tooth size and bone position determine suitability.
The short answer
Laser gum contouring removes selected excess gingiva so more of the natural crown is visible; it does not enlarge the tooth itself. A periodontal examination must confirm that the gum and underlying bone can be reshaped without exposing the root or violating the attachment.
What can cause a gummy smile or short-looking teeth?
A gummy smile may result from excess gingival display, a short clinical crown, altered tooth eruption, lip movement, or jaw position. A laser is a cutting instrument used to remove soft tissue, while crown lengthening may also require reshaping the supporting bone.
How is laser gum contouring planned safely?
The clinician maps the gum line, measures the visible crown, checks probing depths and radiographs, and plans the new scallop before numbing the area. The procedure uses a soft-tissue laser or surgical instrument, followed by cleaning, protective dressing when needed, and review of healing.
When should a gummy smile be assessed by a dentist?
Arrange an assessment when excess gum hides otherwise healthy crowns, the gum line is uneven, or a proposed cosmetic change would alter the bite or restorations. After treatment, report persistent bleeding, increasing swelling, severe pain, fever, or exposed root surfaces.
What should you ask about gum contouring suitability?
Ask whether soft-tissue contouring alone is enough, where the bone crest lies, and how much crown will be exposed. Discuss recurrence, gum recession, sensitivity, healing, and how crowns or veneers would fit the planned gum margin.
Frequently asked questions
Will laser contouring make short teeth longer?
It can reveal hidden natural crown, but it cannot add tooth structure or correct a jaw-related cause.
Can the gum grow back?
The final contour depends on healing, tissue thickness, inflammation control, and whether the original cause was addressed.
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Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.