Is Gum Contouring Right for You?
Gum contouring is a simple, outpatient procedure that can be used to correct an uneven gum line, a gummy smile, or even treat gum recession and periodontal disease. Depending on the extent of treatment, gum contouring can be done in one appointment that takes 15 minutes to an hour. A periodontist is typically the doctor who will perform gum contouring, but some dental offices do provide this treatment as well.
Is Gum Contouring Right for You?
As with any treatment, it is important to discuss your goals and treatment options with your doctor. Gum contouring is a quick and simple solution that can be very beneficial for patients who are candidates.
Periodontal disease can be detrimental to your oral and overall health, so it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. It can lead to gum recession, which occurs when plaque and bacteria build up in the pocket between the gum tissue and the tooth surface. Over time, this buildup can cause the gum tissue to pull away from the surface of the tooth, leading to exposed roots and bone loss. Gums and bone loss can then lead to tooth loss. Gum contouring can be used to eradicate infection and encourage healthy gum reattachment.
A gummy smile is indicated by excessive gum tissue covering too much tooth structure. This gives the appearance of small teeth and can be genetic or the side effect of certain prescription medications. Gum contouring removes a small amount of gum tissue to expose more surface of the tooth, creating a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Gum Contouring Procedure
To begin, your doctor will apply a topical numbing agent before administering a local anesthetic in the gum tissue at the area being treated. They will then utilize a soft tissue laser to trim away excess gum, tissue, or create an even gum line. The soft tissue laser cauterizes the area as it trims the tissue, so no sutures are required.
Your doctor will apply a wound dressing over the treated area to protect it as it begins to heal for the first day or two. The dressing will typically fall off by itself, at which point you will need to follow your doctor's post-operative care instructions.
Gum Contouring Postoperative Care
Post-operative instructions will lay out detailed directions for oral care and dietary restrictions to be observed until your surgery site is fully healed, per your doctor’s clearance. It is important to keep your mouth as clean as possible to prevent infection, so you will continue to brush and floss regularly, just taking care to avoid the surgery site. Using a warm salt water solution to rinse your mouth regularly, especially after eating, can help soothe the area and keep your mouth clear of food particles and debris.
Minor swelling and tenderness are normal, and pain should be manageable with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If you experience severe pain, you need to see your doctor as soon as possible to make sure you have not developed an infection.
Gum contouring is a great treatment option for many patients and is an easy way to improve the health and/or appearance of your smile.