Are you unhappy with how the gums affect your smile? Gum contouring may be the cosmetic dental procedure that you are looking for. In this procedure, the natural gum line is changed to give you that attractive, symmetrical smile you have always wanted. In addition, gum contouring procedures can alter several issues that tend to make patients feel conscious about their smile. These dental problems include:
Gummy Smile
People with a gummy smile have prominent gums that make their teeth look small and dominate their smile. This look can come about naturally, or because of poor oral health which has led to swollen gums. A rule of thumb is that if the gum extends beyond one-eighth of an inch into view when a person smiles, that person is said to have a gummy smile.
Receding Gums
The opposite of a gummy smile, some people have receding gums that make them consider gum contouring. Receding gums expose the roots of your teeth, making them appear even longer. However, aesthetic concerns are not the only reason why people with receding gums seek gum contouring treatment. The exposed roots are susceptible to bacteria and plaque, putting your oral health at greater risk. Receding gums also affect the support that teeth get; loss of gums often occurs in conjunction with bone loss.
How Can Gum Contouring Help?
Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure that can correct overgrown gum tissue or treat gum recession by using gum grafts obtained from gum tissue elsewhere in the patient’s mouth. A laser is typically used on the patient to give the gum line a more symmetrical look. While some dentists may use scalpels, lasers are usually the preferred method because of their precision and quick recovery times. With laser technology, your wounds are sealed as the laser cuts the gum, keeping bleeding and wounding in control and removing the need for stitches. This makes the gum contouring procedure minimally invasive and mostly pain-free. While you might experience a bit of discomfort from sore, tender gums after the procedure, these sensations will subside in 2 to 3 days.
Is Gum Contouring Suitable for You?
Good gum health is important to achieve a successful and straightforward gum contouring procedure. If you suffer from issues like gum disease or tooth decay, then you may not be ready for gum contouring until you recover from these problems. Keeping gum disease at bay by maintaining proper oral hygiene is key to achieving and maintaining successful results for a long time to come. Since the results of this procedure are permanent, it is important to be clear about the look you are hoping to achieve and the effort it takes to maintain it.
Together with a qualified cosmetic dentist, you must discuss these expectations and how best to achieve them.
Ready to Achieve the Perfect Smile?
Gum contouring is just one of many smile makeover procedures available out there. Find out which procedure is best for you by talking to an experienced cosmetic dentist. Call Dr. Alex Rubinov at (718) 253-0800 today to find out more or make an appointment.