Laser gum contouring is widely known as a cosmetic dental procedure used to enhance the appearance of the smile. However, in some cases, gum reshaping is not just about aesthetics—it can be medically necessary to improve oral health or prepare for other dental treatments. Understanding the medical reasons for gum reshaping helps patients recognize when this minimally invasive procedure might be essential, rather than elective.
What Is Medically Necessary Gum Contouring?
Medically necessary gum contouring refers to gum reshaping procedures performed not for cosmetic purposes, but to correct oral health issues or enable restorative dental work. Unlike cosmetic cases, these procedures may be partially or fully covered by dental insurance, depending on the diagnosis and documentation.
Here are the most common medical situations that require laser gum reshaping.
1. Gum Overgrowth from Medications (Drug-Induced Gingival Hyperplasia)
Certain medications can cause abnormal growth of the gum tissue, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and increased risk of infection. Common culprits include:
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin)
- Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine)
- Calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine)
This condition—called gingival hyperplasia—can make it difficult to keep teeth clean, resulting in gum disease or tooth decay. In these cases, laser gum contouring becomes medically necessary to remove the excess tissue and restore proper gum function.
2. Periodontal Pockets and Gum Disease
In advanced stages of gum disease, bacteria create deep pockets between the gums and teeth, trapping plaque and debris. When these pockets become too deep to clean with regular brushing or even professional cleanings, laser gum reshaping may be required to:
- Reduce pocket depth
- Eliminate diseased tissue
- Promote healing and reattachment of the gums to the teeth
Laser technology can precisely target infected areas while preserving healthy tissue, making it an ideal option for medically necessary gum contouring in periodontal care.
3. Tooth Exposure for Crowns or Restorations (Crown Lengthening)
Sometimes a tooth doesn’t have enough visible surface above the gumline to support a dental crown, filling, or veneer. This could be due to:
- Gum overgrowth
- Tooth fracture near the gumline
- Naturally short clinical crowns
In these cases, gum reshaping is medically necessary to expose more of the tooth structure. This process, often referred to as crown lengthening, allows the dentist to properly place a restoration without compromising the gumline or adjacent teeth.
4. Orthodontic or Prosthetic Planning
If gums are uneven or excessively cover teeth, it can interfere with the placement of braces, dentures, or bridges. A dentist may recommend laser gum reshaping as part of the treatment plan to ensure a better fit and long-term stability for orthodontic appliances or prosthetics.
5. Tissue Biopsy or Diagnosis of Abnormal Growths
Occasionally, laser gum contouring is used to remove suspicious growths or lesions on the gums. These areas may need to be biopsied for oral pathology screening. In these cases, the procedure is medically indicated and may be covered by insurance as part of diagnostic treatment.
Will Insurance Cover Medically Necessary Gum Contouring?
If your gum reshaping is being performed for medical—not cosmetic—reasons, there’s a greater chance your dental insurance will offer coverage. Be sure to:
- Request a pre-treatment estimate from your provider
- Get documentation stating the medical necessity of the procedure
- Work with your dentist’s office to submit the appropriate codes and records
Final Thoughts
While many people associate gum contouring with cosmetic smile makeovers, it’s important to understand the medical reasons for gum reshaping. From treating gum disease to preparing for restorations, medically necessary gum contouring plays a critical role in both oral health and functional dentistry.
If you’re experiencing gum overgrowth, persistent inflammation, or are planning major dental work, talk to your dentist about whether laser gum contouring is needed—not just for how your smile looks, but for how it works.
