Is Gum Contouring Painful?
Gum Contouring
One cosmetic procedure that is commonly performed in dentistry is gum contouring. This procedure may also be called tissue sculpting or gum reshaping. It creates an uneven gum line when patients have gums that are too low or too high on the teeth. The uneven gums can make the teeth look smaller and impact the patient’s smile. The gum contouring procedure makes the gum line more balanced and even, resulting in a beautiful smile.
Summary of the Procedure
Historically, a scalpel was used for gum contouring. Based on recent enhancements, most dental professionals now prefer to use special lasers for gum contouring and reshaping. There are multiple benefits associated with using a laser, such as reducing discomfort and pain. In order to keep the gum tissue in place after the excess gum tissue is removed, the dental professional may use sutures.
Receding Gums
Patients with receding gums may benefit from the addition of gum tissue. During this procedure, tissue is removed from the palate or another part of the patient’s mouth and attached to the problem area. Tissue is secured around the teeth to lengthen the gum line and create a more attractive smile.
To ensure patients remain comfortable during the procedure and do not experience pain, a local anesthetic is used. Once the procedure is complete, patients may have some slight discomfort and swelling.
Discomfort
Any pain associated with the procedure is usually minor. The use of a laser aids in minimizing pain. An over-the-counter pain medication is typically sufficient to manage any discomfort during the recovery. Aspirin can thin the blood and result in complications. As a result, these types of medications should be avoided.
Rest
Patients must allow their bodies time to rest in order to heal. Any strenuous activity, including exercise, should be avoided for at least a day or two. Activities that increase blood flow can cause swelling, pain, and even result in bleeding. The dental team will advise when patients can resume these types of activities.
Diet
Following the procedure, the patient’s gums will be sensitive. A soft diet should be followed during the recovery. Smoothies, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, jell-o, and other foods that are easy to consume are safe during this time. Avoid hard and crunchy foods that can damage the gums and cause pain. Use caution when introducing new foods, and be sure to go slow. A normal diet can be resumed once the gums have healed.
Procedure Duration
The severity of the issue will determine the amount of time required to complete the procedure. If significant contouring is required, the procedure will take longer than minor adjustments. In most cases, gum contouring will take an average of one to two hours to complete.
Recovery
In order to fully recover from the procedure, it can take a few days to a few weeks. Pain will go away as the gums heal and the body recovers. If the pain becomes worse or does not improve after a few days, patients should contact the office, as this could indicate infection or another issue.
Patients who are interested in gum contouring should call today. The team can help determine if you are a good candidate for gum contouring and discuss any questions you have regarding the procedure.