Is Gum Contouring Right for You?

It is important to have a smile that gives you confidence and boosts your self-esteem. If you were born with large, oversize, or uneven gums, this may not be the case for you. If your gums are the one thing you would want to fix about your smile, there are cosmetic dental procedures available to help you improve the aesthetic of your gums. Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping, is a dental procedure used in cosmetic treatments to improve the appearance of gums and for medical purposes to treat and prevent the advancement of gum disease. Below is more information to help you decide if gum contouring may be right for you.

When Is a Gum Contouring Appropriate?

The gum contouring procedure is used for both cosmetic treatments and the treatment of gum disease. Determining if it is appropriate for you is really determined by the state of your teeth, your overall oral health, and your goals.

Gum Contouring for Cosmetic Treatment: If the goal is to improve the appearance of your smile, gum contouring can help to reduce and reshape gums that are uneven or cover too much of your teeth. Whether it is caused by genetics or medication use, some individuals have what is often called a "gummy" smile. If you feel like your gums are larger than they should be in proportion to your teeth, or your teeth look oversized because of your gums, you may be a good candidate for gum contouring.

Periodontal Gum Contouring: The gum contouring procedure can also be appropriate in cases where periodontal disease, or gum disease has advanced to the point where a patient's gums have receded. If the gums have receded and gum disease has advanced, gum contouring can be used as a treatment to stop further decay, tooth loss, and infections. When gums recede, they leave the teeth exposed and vulnerable, and pockets can form between the gums and teeth. These pockets are dangerous as they can lead to the buildup of bacteria. The gum reshaping procedure can eliminate pockets and restore the gum tissue.

How the Procedure Works

Most experienced and trained dentists are qualified to perform gum contouring procedures. Prior to the procedure the patient will receive a local anesthetic to numb the gums. Then they will use a laser to strip away the excess gum tissue. The laser will then reshape the gums and seal the tissue to prevent further bleeding.

Post-Treatment Care

After the procedure it is important to continue to practice good dental hygiene, however daily brushing and flossing will need to be gentle to avoid irritating the gums. If you are in pain after the procedure your dentist may recommend over the counter pain relievers and to avoid hard or tough foods.

Thanks to modern advances in dental services, there are strategies to help you find a smile you are proud of. If you have oversized or crooked gums, gum contouring treatment may be for you. Give your dentist a call and discuss with them treatment options for you.

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