Do you feel confident about your smile? Individuals as young as four years old exhibit self-consciousness about how their smile looks.
Generally, in American culture, smiles communicate kindness, happiness, and satisfaction. The simple act of smiling causes a neurological reaction that elevates your mood. Thus, a smile tells your facial muscles that you’re happy, so you feel more positive.
It’s easier to put on that happy face when you have healthy teeth and gums. Some people have straight, white teeth, but their gums affect their teeth’s appearance. Gum contouring offers an option for correcting this issue.
Keep reading to learn more about this procedure and how it can help you.
Reasons To Consider Gum Contouring
Most individuals choose to have gum contouring to give them a smile they’re proud to show off. Do you have a lot of gum tissue that covers up part of your teeth? Dentists often refer to this as a “gummy” smile.
Some people’s gum line is uneven. Even slight differences can affect how your smile looks. This can result from genetic factors, medications, or gum disease.
Did you know that almost half of adults older than 29 years have gum disease? If you’re among this group of people with unhealthy gums, getting treatment is the first step.
Apart from cosmetic concerns of uneven gums, this may also contribute to disease. The excess tissue can create areas for bacteria to collect. This can lead to gingivitis, gum disease, and even general health problems.
After completing treatment, you may choose to have contouring to fix uneven gums.
What Is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a conservative procedure performed to correct gums’ health and appearance. Cosmetic Dentists or Periodontists specialize in caring for your gums and jawbone. Their training includes gaining expertise in performing gum contouring.
This minor oral surgical procedure takes place in the dental office during one visit. You’re given a mild sedative to help you relax during the gum contouring process. The dentist also numbs the area further before beginning so you won’t feel any pain.
Laser Gum Contouring is one approach used to improve the gum’s appearance. The laser allows the dentist to precisely and gently remove extra gum tissue.
A diode laser cauterizes (burns the tiny blood vessels) while cutting. The dentist can then work without bleeding blocking their view. It also reduces the risk of infection by closing the vessels immediately so bacteria can’t get in.
The result is a gum line that’s even and shows your beautiful teeth.
Gum Contouring After Care
Some people have swollen or sore gums following a gum contouring procedure. This may last for up to a week.
The level of pain is usually minimal and shouldn’t cause trouble eating, drinking, or speaking. Eat soft foods and drink protein shakes to avoid causing pain to the tender areas.
Dentists typically recommend taking an over-the-counter pain reliever for the discomfort. You may be told to avoid aspirin as this can increase the risk of bleeding. It’s important to gently brush and floss your teeth as usual to reduce the risk of infection.
If you notice bleeding or have significant pain, call your dentist. They will give you instructions about what you should do. Don’t hesitate to contact the office if you feel concerned.
What’s the Cost of Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is often considered an optional cosmetic procedure. Thus, most insurances won’t cover this dental work. This means you will need to pay for this out of pocket.
The cost varies based on how much contouring you’re having done. On average, the cost ranges from $50 to $350 for each tooth. If you choose to have all your front teeth treated, you may pay between $1,000 and $3,000.
If you want gum contouring but don’t have the total amount to pay for it, talk to the dental office. Many practices offer financing programs to spread out the payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s common to have questions about a procedure you’ve never had before. Make a list and take it to the dentist with you. This helps you remember what you wanted to ask.
The following answers some often asked questions.
Will Gum Contouring Be a Permanent Fix?
The answer is “Yes”. During the procedure, the bone under the gum is also contoured. This means that the gums won’t grow back.
Can You Have Other Cosmetic Mouth Treatments at the Same Time?
In some patients, gum contouring is one part of other cosmetic treatments. For example, if you’re getting veneers or crowns, the dentist may contour the gums. This provides the best aesthetic result.
Can Gum Contouring Be the Treatment for Gum Disease?
If you have gum disease, this procedure isn’t an option to resolve this problem. Yet, having gum contouring can help reduce your chances of developing gum disease. Once your gums have completed treatment and healing, you can then undergo contouring.
Are You Looking for a Dentist Near You?
If you don’t like how your gums look, talk to your dentist about having gum contouring. Slone Dental in Lexington, KY believes that great smiles enhance self-confidence. Our staff creates a comfortable environment where patients are treated with dignity.
We’re proud of our impact on patient lives. We’ve watched people come in mumbling, hiding their mouths, and hunched over. After treatment, they’re walking tall, smiling, and speaking with confidence.
Our team offers general and cosmetic dentistry. This includes routine cleanings and checkups and treating tooth decay, yellowing, and more.
Request an appointment today to get a healthy, happy smile.
