Laser Gum Contouring: Does It Hurt?

Whether caused by a medical condition, decay, prescription drugs, or genetics, there are various reasons why a person’s gums can look imbalanced or overgrown. When this happens, the appearance of their entire smile is affected. For individuals with uneven or improperly positioned gums, Dr. Tasneem Mahmood of Gloss Dentistry at Greenway offers laser gum contouring, an effective solution to reshape the gums and enhance one’s overall appearance.

Suppose you are self-conscious about a “gummy” smile or have been advised by your dentist to undergo gum contouring. In that case, you may be curious about the potential discomfort associated with this procedure. In this blog, our Upper Kirby cosmetic dentist deep dives into the ins and outs of pain management during and after laser gum therapy.

Local Anesthesia During Treatment

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping, is a sophisticated surgical procedure performed at our Upper Kirby dental office, ensuring the utmost precision of contemporary soft tissue lasers and patient comfort under local anesthetic. Regarding the level of discomfort, it is crucial to note that the procedure is painless during its execution due to the localized anesthetic. However, it is natural to experience some postoperative soreness.

Pain Management After Laser Gum Contouring

Typically, recovery time from laser gum contouring is one week or less. The extent of discomfort generally depends on the amount of gum tissue that requires removal and the chosen technique for the procedure. While scalpels and sutures can result in overall greater irritation and a lengthier recovery period, laser gum contouring often negates the need for these outdated techniques, leading to faster recovery.

Nonetheless, it is important to note that some degree of swelling and discomfort is expected after any surgery. Rest assured, there are various strategies available to manage these postoperative symptoms effectively.

Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever

To alleviate any discomfort following the reshaping procedure, our Upper Kirby dentist normally advises the utilization of an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen post-laser gum contouring. However, it is advised to steer clear of any medications containing aspirin, as they have a blood-thinning effect that may potentially result in bleeding.

Avoid Irritating Foods

Due to gum sensitivity after surgery, we strongly advise that patients refrain from consuming crunchy or hard foods during the recovery phase, as they may exacerbate irritation of the delicate gum tissue.

Rest & Relax

In the pursuit of optimal outcomes, it is imperative to prioritize ample rest as an integral part of the healing process. Taking the time to relax and allow the body to recuperate plays a significant role in promoting a successful recovery. Furthermore, we advise avoiding engaging in strenuous activities that may intensify blood flow to the area, as this can exacerbate pain, swelling, and bleeding, consequently prolonging the healing period.

Upper Kirby Laser Gum Contouring and More

Before considering laser gum contouring, it is essential to discuss the procedure with your dentist and determine whether it is right for you. At Gloss Dentistry, Dr. Mahmood can provide you with sound advice and will be there to help you every step of the way through your cosmetic dentistry journey. Contact us to schedule a consultation today; we look forward to helping make your smile look its best!

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