What is Gum Contouring?
Gum Contouring
A popular surgical procedure used to enhance the shape and appearance of the gums is called gum contouring. When a patient has excess gum tissue, it can make the teeth look shorter than normal and result in a gummy smile. It is also possible for the gums to be uneven or have a poor shape. The gum contouring procedure is highly effective in restoring the appearance of the gums and giving patients a beautiful smile.
Consultation
Prior to the gum contouring procedure, patients will have a consultation with the dental professional. During this appointment, they will review the procedure, plan for treatment, recovery expectations, and cost for treatment. In order to be a good candidate for the procedure, the patient must have good oral health without any untreated issues. Any gum disease or decay must first be resolved before proceeding with gum contouring.
The dental professional will evaluate the patient’s gum-to-tooth ratio. This calculation helps in determining how much gum tissue needs to be removed in order to achieve the desired results. The goal of gum contouring is to ensure patients have good symmetry and balance needed for an attractive smile.
Surgical Procedure
The procedure will begin with the use of a local anesthetic. This numbs the treatment area to ensure patients remain comfortable. If needed, sedation can also be used, but patients must arrange for transportation if sedation is being used. Below is a summary of the gum contouring procedure:
- Gums are marked, indicating the necessary modifications
- Excess gum tissue is removed with a laser or scalpel
- Gum tissue is reshaped for symmetry and balance
- Gums are closed and held in place with sutures, which also aids in slowing the bleeding
Duration
Gum contouring takes an average of 1-2 hours to complete. The timeline for the procedure varies based on the number of teeth being treated, the severity of the issue, and other factors.
Healing
It can take a few hours for the anesthesia to wear off. Minor discomfort and sensitivity of the treatment area are normal immediately following the procedure. Any post-procedure pain can typically be managed using an over-the-counter pain reliever. Routine activities can typically be resumed within a day or two. It will normally take a few weeks for the gums to heal completely.
Aftercare
It is vital for patients to closely follow the dental team’s aftercare instructions. Below is a summary of typical post-procedure guidelines:
- Eat a soft and mild diet to protect the sensitive gums
- Wait a few days before brushing or flossing around the treatment area
- Use saltwater or a special mouthwash to maintain good oral hygiene during the recovery period
Pain
Contact the office if pain is persistent or becomes worse after a few days. There may be an infection or another issue that requires treatment.
Gum Contouring Candidates
Patients with the following issues are often good candidates for gum contouring:
- Gums that are misshapen or uneven
- A gummy smile or excess gum tissue
- Overgrown gum tissue, which often happens following braces and other orthodontic treatments
If you are concerned with the appearance of your gums, call the office to discuss whether you may be a good candidate for gum contouring. The highly effective procedure can deliver excellent results and give patients a beautiful smile.