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Is Laser Gum Depigmentation Right For You?What is laser gum depigmentation?
Laser gum depigmentation is a cosmetic dentistry procedure preferred by individuals with gingival hyperpigmentation. Some individuals may find dark gums aesthetically unpleasing and prefer lighter, pink gum tissue.
Laser depigmentation lightens dark gum tissue and is one of the most effective treatments for gum depigmentation. It produces better aesthetic outcomes and a low recurrence rate.
Laser gum depigmentation is also known as dark gum treatment, laser gum bleaching, gum depigmentation, gum whitening, gum lightening, and other variations.
How does laser gum whitening work?
Our doctors at MD Periodontics use a modern approach called the Waterlase dental laser, which is FDA-cleared for gum depigmentation. Waterlase uses intense light pulses to vaporize the top layer of dark gum tissue. The system combines a laser beam and high-powered water spray to cut, etch, and shape gum tissue without heat, vibration, or pressure. The procedure is quick, precise, safe, and gentle, with minimal bleeding, and often does not require a local anesthetic.
How does it compare to other gum depigmentation procedures?
Traditional and modern gum depigmentation treatments, along with their advantages and disadvantages, include:
Bleaching with laser treatment
Gum bleaching involves applying a special bleach solution to the gums and activating it with a laser. Its advantages include consistent results, minimal invasiveness, accuracy, effectiveness, and safety, with minimal recovery time.
Many dentists who perform gum bleaching may use surgical procedures, but the modern approach utilizes the Waterlase laser.
Bur abrasion
The bur abrasion technique uses a small polishing tool (bur) to lightly buff away the
outer layer of gum tissue, giving immediate results. It is non-invasive and cost-effective. The disadvantages include increased sensitivity, increased duration of the procedure, post-treatment pain, and a high recurrence rate.
Gum surgery
The outer layers of gum and connective tissue are surgically removed using the scalpel method. The new layers of gum tissue that form are devoid of melanin pigment.
This method provides satisfactory clinical results and patient satisfaction. The technique is simple and versatile, but it causes bleeding during and after the surgery.
Dental lasers
Dental lasers use specific light wavelengths to target and remove melanin pigment, which is responsible for producing dark pigmentation. The process helps light or remove the pigment without using a scalpel blade.
The depigmentation laser technology offers better aesthetic outcomes and a low recurrence rate, making it one of the most effective, comfortable, and reliable techniques for gingival depigmentation. However, it’s important to note that laser procedures require complex, expensive equipment.
The most common lasers for gum depigmentation include carbon dioxide (CO2), Nd: YAG, diode, and Er: YAG.
or call us at What causes dark gums?
The most common cause of darker gums is genetics. It’s harmless and not an indication of disease. It only poses a cosmetic concern for individuals who find it aesthetically unappealing.
People with excess melanin in their skin naturally have darker pigmentation in their gums, either widespread or dark patches. Melanin cells (melanocytes) cause the gums to look black or dark brown instead of pink. This is more common in certain ethnic groups.
Causes for dark gums that do not involve a natural surface pigment include:
- Medication side effects
- Amalgam tattoo—silver (amalgam) dental filling particles get dislodged under the superficial layer of the gum.
- Periodontal disease (gum disease)—LANAP (laser-assisted new attachment procedure) is used for treatment.
What type of dark gums is laser gum lightening most effective for?
Laser gum depigmentation is well-suited for widespread, dark spots or patchy gum pigmentation, effectively restoring a pink hue. However, its suitability may vary for darker skin. Careful adjustments are needed to prevent harm to the skin.
When laser therapy isn’t suitable for a patient, traditional methods can address surface pigment issues. The patient and the doctor must consider the various treatment plans based on unique pigmentation, desired results, and health.
At MD Periodontics, we perform several gum-lightening techniques that offer near-painless results with no downtime. The choice of lightening technique depends on the extent and cause of the gum discoloration.
MD Periodontics’ Waterlase system is far superior to the diode laser or other surgical methods and preserves healthy gums.
If you’re unhappy with the color of your gums, reach out to MD Periodontics for a consultation.
Choose MD Periodontists in Los Angeles for gum whitening
MD Periodontal is the premier Beverly Hills periodontal facility for high-quality dental care. Located in Beverly Hills, we provide many orthodontics and dental services. Our patients are not only local but come to us from around the world for our highly-rated oral surgery outcomes.
Dr. Abdy Moshrefi, DDS, and Dr. Nazanin Daneshmand, DDS, and their highly qualified, dedicated, professional staff form a team that provides top-of-the-line technology and skills earned from extensive experience. Our goal is always to help you have the best smile and oral health possible.
Schedule a consultation online or call us at our office phone number (855) 245-1100. A spa-like atmosphere, staffed by a team who genuinely care about your smile, awaits you at our dental office!
MD Periodontics is conveniently located for patients throughout the metropolitan Los Angeles area. Our board-certified periodontists and implant dentistry experts are available at locations in or near Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, West Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles, Marina del Rey, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Sherman Oaks, and Encino.
Our goal is to pass on truly useful information to our readers. We hope you enjoy our work and find it of value. Please let us know!
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