Gum Contouring - What Is It And Why It Is Done

Cosmetic dentistry is not just about improvements and corrections of the teeth because the teeth are not the only thing that can affect the appearance of your smile. Gums which are either too high or too low can make your teeth appear too long or too small, respectively. The so-called gum recession can be a sign of periodontal disease but in most cases, gums that are not in the "right" line are a result of the genetics. But the good news is that both too high and too low gums can be reshaped by a procedure called gum contouring or gum reshaping.

Gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure (simpler than it may seem at a first glance) and is usually performed in the dentist's office. Several methods can be used to remove or reshape the gums including scalpel and laser. Most cosmetic dentists use the latter because it eliminates the need for stitches and accelerates healing of the gums after the procedure as the laser "closes" the wounds as it cuts the tissue. The patient, of course, receives a local anesthesia which means that the procedure itself is completely painless. It is usually done in a single dental visit because only the gums above the front teeth are removed or reshaped. The results of gum contouring are usually permanent. This means that the gums will not grow back once they are cut off nor recede when they are reshaped although sometimes a small piece of the bone at the tooth's root is removed to ensure truly lasting results.

The gums can be sore and swollen during the first few days after gum contouring but the pain is usually easily managed with over-the-counter pain medications such as Advil (Aspirin must not be taken as it may cause excess bleeding). Only soft foods should be eaten a few days after the surgery in order to avoid irritating the gums. Just as important is to be gentle when you brush your teeth or use a mouthwash while the gums are healing. Although some swelling and bleeding after the procedure are normal, excessively swollen gums or extreme/persistent bleeding require dental attention.

If you are unhappy with your smile due to too low or too high gums, gum contouring is without a doubt worth considering because it will give you that perfect smile you have always dreamt about. Keep in mind, however, that it is considered a cosmetic procedure which means that your dental insurance will not cover gum contouring just because you are unhappy the way your gums and teeth look. How much gum reshaping will cost you depends on the extent of the surgery but it usually is not as expensive as other cosmetic dental procedures although the overall costs also depend on the dentist who will perform the surgery. But you are highly recommended not to choose a dentist on the basis of the price but experience instead because the end results primarily depend on the skills and expertise of the dentist who will perform gun contouring.