Some people are born with uneven gum tissue, which creates a smile that looks too small. Being self-conscious about your smile will damage both self-esteem and self-confidence. One of the popular methods to enhance your smile is gum contouring (also called gingivoplasty).
Gum contouring is an elective cosmetic dental procedure where the dentist re-contours the gumline of a smile. The procedure consists of removing excess gum tissue that is covering your smile.
The treatment is an elective procedure often done for esthetic reasons, but it can also be done to protect your long term oral health. A perfect example is for patients with periodontal disease. They might need gum contouring if dental cleanings or antibiotics do not restore the health of the gums.
How is Gum Contouring Performed
During the gum contouring procedure, Las Vegas Cosmetic Dentist Marielaina Perrone DDS will use a scalpel or soft tissue laser to remove excess gum tissue to expose more of your smile. Sutures may be needed to help healing and hold tissues in place.
The surgical length of treatment depends on the amount of contouring and restructuring needed. The gum contouring procedure can take between one and two hours to complete.
Gum contouring requires minimal if any, downtime. The total healing time can take anywhere from days to weeks. It all depends how much contouring is needed.
Following the procedure, Marielaina Perrone DDS might prescribe a pain reliever to help control any pain you might experience. Swelling can occur and can be reduced by applying a cold compress for 15-20 minutes. You can expect some level of sensitivity for a few days. It is recommended to eat soft foods (soup or applesauce).
At your follow-up appointment, you can discuss any concerns you might have. Dr. Perrone will examine the healing process to ensure everything is healing correctly.
Ideal Patients
Patients with a "gummy smile" with excess gum tissue can benefit from the surgery, and patients with an uneven or asymmetrical gum line. Gum contouring can also be performed for patients looking to reduce the gum tissue around a tooth where restoration is going to be placed.
Patients should also maintain good oral health without tooth decay or periodontal disease. If these issues are present in your smile, they should be addressed prior to gum contouring.
Cost Of Gum Contouring
It is important to remember that gum contouring is normally considered a cosmetic procedure. Dental insurance will typically not cover the cost of cosmetic procedures. However, your dentist may determine that the procedure is medically necessary to preserve the teeth and improve the mouth's functionality. Check with your dental insurance company before treatment to ensure maximum benefit.
Gum Contouring – How to Get Started
The initial step in the gum contouring process is scheduling a cosmetic consultation to have your smile evaluated. Dr. Perrone will examine your entire mouth to assess your oral health and determine if you are an ideal candidate for gum contouring.
This cosmetic consultation appointment is also the perfect time for you to address any questions or concerns you have regarding your smile.