What is gum contouring?

Are you not happy with your smile, but not sure what you can do about it? Is it your gums that bother you the most? You may be surprised to hear that this is a common experience for many Americans, who are generally unhappy with the appearance of their gums. The good news is there is a cosmetic dental procedure called gum contouring that is specifically designed to fix the appearance of irregular or misshapen gums. Below is more information for you on the gum contouring procedure to help you determine if it is right for you.

The gum contouring procedure

Gum contouring, gum lifting or gum reshaping, are all different names for the same cosmetic dentistry procedure used to correct the shape and size of the gums. In general, the gum contouring procedure is fairly quick and only requires a local anesthetic. The anesthetic is used to minimize the pain experienced during the procedure; however, many patients report the procedure is relatively painless. In the past, the procedure was performed by a dentist using a scalpel to reshape and trim the gums, but today the use of lasers for the procedure is becoming increasingly popular. The laser can efficiently trim away the excess gum tissue, reshape the gums, and seal the tissue all at once resulting in perfectly shaped gums with little bleeding and little pain.

Who is gum contouring for?

Some individuals have gums that are just not the right size for their mouth. The result of oversized gums is a smile that appears crooked or teeth that appear small. Often called a “gummy” smile, the appearance of small teeth is caused by the overgrowth of the gum tissue covering the teeth. Gummy smiles may be the result of genetics or the side-effects of prescription medications. Even though the condition is common, many adults with oversized gums feel ashamed or embarrassed of their smile. Gum contouring is a perfect cosmetic option to improve the appearance of oversized or misshaped gums. Additionally, gum contouring is a treatment approach used for patients with advanced gum disease with gums that have receded and are exposing too much of the tooth. Periodontal gum reshaping, or gum contouring for gum disease, eliminates the pockets that have formed between receded gums and teeth and seals the tissue to prevent the disease from progressing.

Post-procedure care

For up to three days after the gum contouring procedure some discomfort and swelling should be expected. Your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever to help with any pain. Additionally, they will likely recommend you avoid any hard or crunchy foods that will irritate the gums. Even though the gums will be tender, it is important to still practice good dental hygiene after the procedure. Gentle daily brushing and flossing will help the gums heal and avoid any infection.

You don’t have to be unhappy with your smile any longer. Consider calling your dentist today and discussing if gum contouring is the right option for you.

More information on Gum Contouring : Is Gum Contouring Right For You?