What is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a dental procedure that changes or removes gum tissue, resulting in a balanced and healthy gumline. For some people, gum contouring can offer a more symmetrical smile if their gums seem too large or bumpy. For other people, gum contouring can help meet periodontal or restorative needs. Gum contouring is a focused treatment that allows the dentist to sculpt the gum tissue carefully near every tooth. It may be used for cosmetic reasons or functional reasons, or both.
For people who feel their teeth may then seem to be shorter or that their gumline extends too low on the teeth, gum contouring is one treatment option. The reason why people have gummy smiles can be a matter of natural anatomy, coupled with certain medications, genetics, or delayed adult tooth eruption during childhood. If your teeth and gums allow, the dentist can remove some gum tissue to expose more of the tooth surface. The result is a cleaner, more symmetrical-looking smile.
Some people have the opposite problem- they do not have sufficient gum tissue to protect the roots of their natural teeth. Gum recession, or insufficient gum tissue where there once was, can leave your roots exposed if it's not treated. Without enough gum tissue, the teeth may appear longer. Gum recession can occur as a result of repeated aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or changes related to age. Gum contouring can involve the repositioning of tissue to address these situations. Gum contouring may be used in conjunction with gum grafting to address all the gum tissue that is needed. Not only does your overall oral health improve, but it can also improve the overall appearance of your smile. You will find that your teeth are less sensitive and more protected from bacteria and tartar.
The gum contouring procedure can involve a number of tools that can include a dental laser, customary surgical instruments, or a combination of both. Laser technology is popular since it is precise, seals tissue as it works, reduces bleeding, and might speed recovery. Not all cases allow for the use of lasers, and the technique that best addresses your needs will be determined by the dentist for your specific case and your overall treatment plan.
The gum contouring procedure is typically completed after the dentist administers local anesthesia to the treatment area. You remain awake, but you don’t feel any pain. In the event that contouring is mild to moderate, the appointment lasts for about an hour, and recovery usually is straightforward. You may be tender or swollen for just a few days, but you can easily manage these effects through over-the-counter medications along with a soft food diet. Most people resume normal activities shortly after the procedure, and full healing takes a few weeks.
Gum contouring, despite being viewed as a cosmetic procedure, has benefits beyond aesthetics. Excess gum tissue can create pockets, which are difficult to clean properly; pockets can harbor bacteria and raise the risk of gum disease. Here, contouring can improve oral health and leave long-term benefits.
If you have more questions about gum contouring or how addressing it could work as a part of your treatment plan to achieve better dental health, make an appointment with the dentist to see if gum contouring is the best option for you.