What is gum contouring?
Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to improve the shape and appearance of the gums. It can be used to remove excess gum tissue that contributes to a gummy-looking smile or to address areas in which gum tissue has receded and is revealing more of the teeth than desired.
How do I know if I need gum contouring?
This is typically a very personal decision that depends on how you feel about the appearance of your gums. If your gum line looks uneven or covers too much or too little of your teeth, gum contouring or gum reshaping may be a suitable option for you. To learn more, call (305) 614-2438 and schedule an appointment with our dental office.
Is there pain associated with the procedure?
There can be some discomfort, but you will be medicated during the procedure, which helps minimize the chance of feeling pain. The level of discomfort often depends on the extent of gum tissue removal, reshaping, or grafting. In addition, the tools used during treatment can influence how your gums feel afterward. Today, dentists commonly use both traditional scalpels and lasers when performing gum procedures.
What is the recovery time like?
This also depends largely on the tools used during the procedure. When gum contouring is performed with a scalpel, sutures are typically required, and there is often more irritation afterward. In many cases, lasers can treat the gums without cutting or stitches, resulting in a shorter recovery period. Regardless of the method used, some swelling and discomfort are expected following treatment. This can be managed by applying ice packs to your face for 15 minutes at a time and taking ibuprofen as needed.
Are there any restrictions during recovery?
Yes, you will need to be mindful of what you eat during recovery. Because your gums will be sensitive, it is best to avoid foods that are sharp or could cut, poke, or irritate the area. For this reason, many people choose soft foods such as yogurt, soup, ice cream, or pudding for a few days. If gum reshaping was completed using a scalpel, a follow-up visit will likely be scheduled. During that appointment, your dentist will check the gums to confirm proper healing and let you know when you can resume your normal diet. In some cases, an antibiotic rinse may be prescribed to help prevent infection, and brushing should be done very gently during this time.
Is gum shaping different from gum contouring?
Dentists often use these terms interchangeably when discussing these procedures. Some may use the word contouring when a scalpel is involved and reshaping when lasers are used. In either case, the overall approach and goal remain very similar, with the primary difference being the tools used. If your goal is to change the appearance of your gums, the specific term is less important, as both contouring and reshaping can be effective options.
Is this purely a cosmetic procedure, or is there a medical reason for contouring and shaping?
That depends on the reason you are considering gum reshaping. If you contact our office because you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, we will begin with an examination to determine whether the condition is present, review your treatment options, and focus on addressing the disease itself. After that, a gum contouring procedure may be recommended to restore gum tissue that has receded and is affecting the health of your teeth, roots, and jawbone. In many cases, gum contouring and grafting play an important role in preserving the long-term health of your teeth.
Although gum recession is most often associated with gum disease, it can also occur due to aggressive brushing habits, certain prescription medications, or genetic factors. In these situations, just as with gum disease, restoring gum tissue may be necessary to support optimal oral health.
Will insurance pay for it?
The answer really depends on your insurance provider and the reason for your procedure. If you are having gum contouring to restore gums affected by gum disease, insurance will often cover at least part of the cost. If the procedure is purely cosmetic, such as to reduce a gummy smile, coverage is less common.
What are the risks associated with gum reshaping?
There is a small risk of infection or an adverse reaction to anesthesia. If you have undergone surgery with anesthesia in the past, it is unlikely that you will experience any complications this time. At the same time, carefully following the aftercare instructions can greatly reduce the risk of infection.
What are my other options?
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, call (305) 614-2438 to schedule an appointment with our dental office. During your visit, we can perform a thorough examination and take X-rays, then discuss the aspects of your smile that concern you. From there, we can provide a set of recommendations for addressing those concerns. If gum reshaping is not medically necessary, you might consider other cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening or dental bonding, to see if they provide the improvement you want. If your gums continue to be a noticeable concern, exploring gum contouring may be the best option, and we can guide you on the most appropriate approach.
