Some people hate their smile even though their teeth are perfectly healthy.
Why?
Because too much gum tissue shows when they smile.
Patients usually describe it like this:
- “My teeth look too short.”
- “My gums take over my smile.”
- “I look gummy in photos.”
- “My smile looks uneven.”
- “I hate smiling big.”
This is called a “gummy smile,” and in many cases, it can be improved with laser gum contouring often with far less discomfort and downtime than people expect.
At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Burlington, Dr. Thomas Monahan helps patients determine whether the issue is actually excess gum tissue, tooth wear, jaw position, or a combination of factors before recommending cosmetic treatment.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Not every gummy smile has the same cause.
Common reasons include:
- Excess gum tissue
- Naturally short-looking teeth
- Teeth partially covered by gums
- Uneven gumlines
- Worn-down teeth
- Upper lip movement
- Jaw positioning
This matters because laser contouring works well for some causes and poorly for others.
What Is Laser Gum Contouring?
Laser contouring reshapes excess gum tissue to expose more of the natural tooth surface.
In simple terms:
The gums are carefully sculpted to create a more balanced smile.
Compared with older surgical techniques, dental lasers can reduce bleeding and improve precision in many soft-tissue procedures. The Cleveland Clinic notes laser gum contouring is commonly used cosmetically to improve gum symmetry and tooth appearance. (clevelandclinic.org)
Why Patients Like the “No Surgery” Angle
Most people hear “gum reshaping” and imagine:
- Stitches
- Major cutting
- Long recovery
- Significant pain
Modern laser contouring is usually much less dramatic.
Depending on the case, patients may experience:
- Minimal bleeding
- Faster healing
- Less swelling
- Reduced discomfort
- Shorter recovery time
That does not mean it is painless or trivial but it is often easier than patients expect.
What the Procedure Is Actually Like
Many laser contouring procedures are relatively quick.
The dentist reshapes targeted gum tissue gradually to improve symmetry and tooth exposure.
Some patients only need minor refinement around a few teeth.
Others need more extensive contouring across the visible smile line.
The biggest surprise for many people is how small gum adjustments can dramatically change a smile ‘s appearance.
The Important Question Most Cosmetic Ads Skip
Here is what actually matters:
“Are your gums the real problem?”
Sometimes patients think they need gum contouring when the issue is actually:
- Worn teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Orthodontic problems
- Lip movement
- Tooth grinding
- Jaw positioning
In those situations, laser contouring alone may not create the result patients expect.
Who Is Usually a Good Candidate?
Laser gum contouring tends to work best for patients with:
- Excess gum tissue
- Healthy gums
- Good oral hygiene
- Symmetrical bone levels
- Teeth partially hidden by gum tissue
It is usually not ideal when active gum disease or major bite issues are present.
What Recovery Is Usually Like
Most patients describe recovery as manageable.
You may experience:
- Mild soreness
- Temporary sensitivity
- Minor swelling
- Tenderness while eating
Soft foods are often recommended briefly while the tissue heals.
The Biggest Cosmetic Mistake
Overdoing it.
A natural smile should still look like healthy gums support the teeth.
Over-aggressive contouring can create:
- Sensitivity
- Root exposure
- Artificial-looking proportions
- Gumline asymmetry
Good cosmetic dentistry is often about restraint.
Sometimes the “Gummy Smile” Is Actually Tooth Wear
This happens more than people realize.
Years of grinding can shorten teeth gradually, making gums appear more dominant.
In those cases, patients may need restorative work in addition to gum contouring.
That is why diagnosis matters more than trendy cosmetic marketing.
The Goal Is Balance, Not Perfection
Most Burlington patients are not trying to look like celebrities.
They simply want:
- A more balanced smile
- Less gum visibility
- Better symmetry
- More confidence in photos
- A smile that feels less distracting
For the right patient, laser contouring can create a noticeable improvement without turning cosmetic dentistry into a major surgical experience.
