Virtually Painless
Treatment usually needs only a topical anesthetic, and the laser minimizes bleeding as it works.
Accepting New Patients
Gingival Depigmentation in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Wish your gums looked as healthy as your teeth? Gingival depigmentation in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA safely lightens dark spots and patches for even, pink gums. At Elite Dentistry, Dr. Lari uses advanced Solea laser technology for comfortable, natural-looking results.
2,500+
Happy Patients
25+ Years
Experience
Same-Day
Emergency Care
Understanding Your Treatment
What Is Gingival Depigmentation?
Gingival depigmentation is a cosmetic laser treatment that removes dark pigmentation from the gums for a more even, pink appearance. Using the Solea CO2 laser, Dr. Lari precisely targets pigmented tissue while protecting the healthy areas around it. There is no need for scalpels or sutures, and the laser seals as it works to minimize bleeding. The result is a brighter, more uniform gumline that completes your smile.
The Benefits
The Benefits of Gingival Depigmentation
Immediate Recovery
Most patients return to normal activities right away, with far less downtime than older methods.
Natural Results
The laser removes pigment evenly for a consistently natural, pink gum appearance.
Safer Healing
The laser's germ-reducing effect lowers infection risk while supporting faster healing.
The Process
Our Step-by-Step Process
From your first exam to the final result, here's exactly what to expect — calm, clear, and never rushed.
Request an Appointment- 01
Initial Evaluation
Dr. Lari examines your gums, documents the pigmentation, and plans your treatment.
- 02
Topical Anesthesia
A numbing gel is applied for comfort, and you receive protective eyewear.
- 03
Laser Treatment
The Solea laser gently removes the pigmented layer with quiet, precise movements.
- 04
Post-Treatment Care
Your gums may look pale at first, which is normal, and we share simple aftercare tips.
Is It Right for You?
Signs You May Need Gingival Depigmentation
Dark Gums
You have dark or patchy gums that make you self-conscious about your smile.
Cosmetic Goals
You want an even, pink gumline to complete a smile enhancement.
Special Event
You have a wedding or big occasion and want your smile to look its best.
Uneven Color
Patchy pigmentation keeps your gums from matching your bright teeth.
You're in good company… Glowing Reviews
Glowing Reviews
From Our Patients
5-star rated dental care from patients like you…
- 5 out of 5 stars. “Truly the most wonderful experience with a dental office and staff I’ve ever experienced. I came into Elite having recently experienced poor experiences elsewhere in town, and couldn’t believe how kind, capable and professional the team is here. I am 6 months into my Invisalign process and couldn’t be happier. Highly recommend Elite for general dentistry to anyone!” — Alex
- 5 out of 5 stars. “Have been coming here for years. They accommodate all my needs and are very thorough with what they need to work on regarding my dental wellbeing. They also have very advanced dental technology which I love.” — Nicholas
- 5 out of 5 stars. “I just moved to OC and needed to find a new dental office. I had my first visit today with Elite Dentistry and was very impressed. Everyone who worked there was so kind and attentive and the equipment they use is very advanced. They recommend treatment without making you feel pressured.” — Jessica
- 5 out of 5 stars. “This is the dentist I've been waiting for! An absolute artist and master of the craft. When someone is passionate about what they do, it shows! Dr. Rastegar-Lari is simy the best in the area. We did some major work yesterday, and today I feel and look great! Thanks Doc!0” — K
- 5 out of 5 stars. “The stuff was very professional and informative.” — Anna
- 5 out of 5 stars. “Dr. Lari is so kind and gentle and a comforting personality that I have not seen in the dentistry business as long as I have had teeth. He is special and we are lucky to have him in our small community. He makes you feel like you are family and you will appreciate that. No hidden charges or overpricing at all at this office. He went way over and above in quality and cosmetic items I needed for what I paid for. He is my hero.” — Steve
- 5 out of 5 stars. “I had such a great experience at Elite Dentistry in RSM. The ladies at the front desk are so sweet and welcoming and just make everything feel easy from the moment you walk in. The assistants were gentle and attentive and really made sure I was comfortable the whole time.Dr. Lari was amazing. So professional, calm, and thorough. I felt completely at ease and genuinely taken care of. You can tell this office really cares!Highly recommend!” — Yasmeen
- 5 out of 5 stars. “Elite Dentistry is hands down one of the best dental clinics I’ve ever been to. Dr Mehran is truly the best in the industry extremely knowledgeable, professional, and someone you can genuinely trust. The entire team is welcoming and attentive, and you can tell ethics and patient care are a top priority here.They use state of the art technology and the latest equipment, which makes a huge difference in both comfort and results. Everything is explained clearly, there’s no pressure, and you always feel like they’re doing what’s best for you not just what’s convenient.Highly recommend Elite Dentistry to anyone looking for top-tier dental care with honesty, precision, and professionalism” — Masoud
- 5 out of 5 stars. “Elite Dentistry is the best. I grew up with an unnatural fear of dentists but these guys squashed that for me. They are very kind and thorough. They explain every step to make sure I was comfortable with their recommendations. The pricing is fair. I feel good about sending my family here for their dental needs.” — Kevin
- 5 out of 5 stars. “The staff is amazing at Elite Dentistry, very friendly, reassuring and especially gentle. The doctor is very friendly, gentle as well and never upsells.” — Jessica
- 5 out of 5 stars. “I had a great experience with Dr. Lari. The staff was incredibly friendly, professional, and made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I was at ease throughout the visit. I don’t usually get to see the dentist very often, but when I did, it was clear that he knew exactly what he was doing and was very confident and skilled. I truly appreciate the level of care and attention I received and would highly recommend dr.Lari to anyone looking for excellent dental care!” — Leticia
- 5 out of 5 stars. “I had such an amazing experience at Elite Dentistry and cannot recommend them enough. From start to finish, everything was seamless, calm, and genuinely pleasant which is saying a lot when it comes to dental visits.Dr. Mehran Rastegar-Lari is truly exceptional. He is incredibly kind, patient, and clearly very knowledgeable. He took the time to educate me throughout the process, answered all of my questions, and made sure I felt comfortable every step of the way. You can tell he genuinely cares about his patients and their experience, not just the end result.Omar, the dental assistant, was equally amazing. I suffer from pretty high dental anxiety, and he was so calming, reassuring, and supportive. He helped me relax and made the entire visit feel manageable and even comfortable. He was truly great.The front desk staff was also fantastic. Super outgoing, welcoming, and kind from the moment I walked in. The positive energy made a huge difference.On top of all that, I had a crown done the same day, and the process was completely effortless. No stress, no hassle, and everything was handled efficiently and smoothly.If you are looking for a dental office that combines professionalism, compassion, and top tier care, Elite Dentistry is it. I am so grateful I found them. 🦷✨” — Sara
The Elite Dentistry Difference
Why You'll Love Gingival Depigmentation at Elite Dentistry
Even, pink gums can complete a smile beautifully, and we shape yours gently. Here is why patients trust us.
Here are just a few reasons our patients love us:
- Scalpel-Free Treatment
- Minimal Downtime
- Natural-Looking Results
- Comfortable Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
You've Got Questions, We've Got Answers
Don't see the answer you're looking for? Call us at (949) 888-8989.
How long does gingival depigmentation last?
Results are typically long-lasting, with many patients enjoying pink gums for ten to fifteen years. Pigment may slowly return over time, and touch-ups are simple if needed.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients feel little to no pain and need only a topical anesthetic. Any mild discomfort afterward is easily managed for a day or two.
When will I see the final results?
Initial healing happens within one to two weeks, with the full result visible in about four to six weeks. Your gums develop their new pink color as they heal.
Is it done in a single visit?
Yes, most gingival depigmentation treatments are completed in one comfortable visit. The laser makes the process quick and efficient.
Who is a good candidate?
Anyone bothered by dark or patchy gums who wants a more even smile is often a great candidate. Dr. Lari will confirm at your consultation.
Why do people get gum discoloration in the first place?
Dark spots and discoloration on gums are often caused by excess melanin deposits, which occur naturally in some patients based on genetic factors and ethnicity. These pigmented areas are completely harmless and don't indicate disease, but many patients find them aesthetically bothersome. Other causes include smoking, certain medications like minocycline, old amalgam fillings that have left stains, or trauma and previous dental procedures. Dr. Lari assesses the specific cause of your gum discoloration during your consultation to determine whether laser depigmentation is the best solution.
Is gingival depigmentation safe for all patients?
Absolutely. Gingival depigmentation is safe and effective for all skin tones and ethnicities. The Solea laser is specifically designed to target pigmented tissue while protecting surrounding healthy tissue. Dr. Lari customizes treatment parameters based on each patient's individual pigmentation patterns and skin characteristics, and patients with darker gums or higher melanin levels often see especially dramatic aesthetic improvements.
Can you combine other treatments with gingival depigmentation?
Yes, many patients combine gingival depigmentation with other cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening, gum contouring, or full smile makeovers. Timing matters, though. Depigmentation and gum contouring can typically be performed together in one appointment, while teeth whitening is usually done before or after gum procedures depending on your goals and healing timeline. Dr. Lari creates a personalized treatment plan that addresses all your aesthetic concerns while ensuring optimal healing for each procedure.
How much does gingival depigmentation in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA cost?
The cost of gingival depigmentation depends on a few factors, including the scope of your treatment plan and whether additional imaging or procedures are needed. During your visit, we'll walk you through a clear, itemized estimate before anything begins — no surprises. At Elite Dentistry, we work closely with most insurance providers to maximize your benefits, and we offer flexible financing options and new patient specials to make quality care comfortable for every budget.
Schedule Your Gingival Depigmentation Consultation
Ready to reveal brighter, more even gums? Fill out the form below, and our team will reach out within one business hour.
25+ Years of Care
About Our Dentistry
Trusted Local Care in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
- Licensure
- CA License #65190 · Verify
- Insurance
- We work with most insurance providers.
- No Insurance?
- No problem — ask about our new patient specials and payment plans.
- Financing
- A wide range of dental financing options for every budget.
- Counties Served
- Orange County
- Cities Served
- Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto de Caza, Las Flores, Trabuco Canyon
Keep Exploring