A gum lift or gum re-contouring procedure helps correct a gummy smile and allows the patient to achieve a more proportioned border for the teeth.

Gum re-contouring eliminates excess gum tissue so that more of the patients tooth structure can be revealed. Traditionally, scalpels were used for gum re-contouring, but modern technology has now made possible the use of soft tissue lasers for this purpose. A generally painless procedure, laser gum re-contouring precisely takes away just the right amount of gum tissue and allows the incision to be sealed simultaneously. It reduces bleeding and swelling as well as the risk for infection.

Depending on the severity of the problem, laser gum re-contouring may be done on a specific area of the gum tissue or on the entire gum area. Only a qualified and experienced cosmetic dental surgeon should perform this procedure.