The gums play an important part in a great smile. Even beautiful, pearly whites can’t enhance your smile if your gums are taking up too much room on your teeth. If a “gummy” smile is causing you too self-consciously hide your smile, consider gingival contouring.
What is Gingival Contouring?
This is dental related cosmetic procedure that is used to transform the contour of the gums. The procedure involves the cutting away of excessive gum tissue, as well as restoring gum tissue that has receded, exposing an unnatural amount of the teeth. Also, referred to as tissue sculpting and gum reshaping, gingival contouring is life changing cosmetic dental procedure that gives patient’s a smile they can be proud of.
What to Expect
Gingival gum contouring surgery is typically carried out in a dental office. Orthodontists use different methods to perform the procedure, including scalpels radio surgery and lasers, considered one of the best options. Lasers are not only more exact, they quickly seal the gum tissue while they cut, reducing risk of infections and encourages a faster healing process. Laser also creates a symmetrical, even gum line.
The first step during the gingival contouring procedure is to numb the gums using a local anesthetic. Most patients find the procedure to be painless. Next, laser is used to remove the excess gum tissue, precisely reshaping the gum line. In most cases, gum reshaping procedure can be completed in around an hour.
Recovery
Discomfort experienced during recovery is typically mild and can be addressed with over-the-counter pain medications that are recommended by the orthodontist. Recovery time differs from person to person, however, many recover in just a few days. In rare cases, it can take up to two weeks. Recovery for most patients doesn’t interfere with their daily activities. Just follow your orthodontist’s instructions which is include brushing your teeth and what foods to avoid during the healing process.
If you’re self-conscious about your smile, make an appointment with a trusted orthodontist to find out if gingival gum contouring is right for you.
