Webster Groves, MO

Gum Contouring in Webster Groves, MO

Gum contouring in Webster Groves, MO. Have you ever felt self-conscious about your smile because of excessive or uneven gums? Do you think your teeth are too short or that your smile appears gummy? If so, gum contouring might be the solution for you. This cosmetic dental procedure is gaining popularity as a way to help people get the smile they deserve.

Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping Webster Groves, MO residents achieve the pearly whites they’ve always wanted. We particularly enjoy treating patients who are anxious in the dentists’ chair, as it’s important to us that everyone gets the dental care they need. If you’re looking to upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Webster Groves, MO, speak to a member of our staff at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment through our website.

Why Are My Gums Uneven?

There are a lot of factors that can cause having too much gum tissue, and they have to do with your teeth, lips, jaws, gum, and bite. The most common causes are:

• Genetics, including having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or just having a gene for excess gums
• An upper lip that moves up too high when smiling
• Gingival hypertrophy (enlarged gums)
• Overgrowth of the upper jaw causing gum tissue to bulge out
• An improper bite
• Certain medications that cause gums to grow abnormally
• Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing regularly, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and overgrow
• Certain medical conditions, such as some types of tumors, can cause gingival hyperplasia
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to become more sensitive and prone to excess growth

Fortunately, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Webster Groves, MO who are looking to be prouder of their smile, gum contouring treatment offers a safe smile makeover.

What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure in which gums are reshaped to reduce how noticeable they are. This can be done by removing gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or touching up your current gum line to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. The procedure is usually done with a scalpel or laser to carefully remove the gum tissue, and the dentist will sculpt the gum line to create the desired shape. Gum contouring can be done in tandem with other cosmetic dental procedures in Webster Groves, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile perfect.

How Gum Contouring Is Done in Webster Groves, MO

Gum contouring can typically be completed in one visit. After discussing gum contouring with your Webster Groves, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:

• The dentist will begin by reviewing the procedure with you. They may mark your new gum line with a pen so you can see what your new smile will look like.
• Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area.
• The dentist will reduce or reshape your gum line with a specialized tool.
• The dentist may apply sutures to close any incisions made during the procedure.
• Later appointments may be requested to ensure you heal property and that the results meet your expectations.

After your appointment, your Webster Groves, MO dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your gums and manage any discomfort or swelling.

Post-Operative Care For Gum Contouring in Webster Groves, MO

After your gum contouring, you need to take good care of your gums to encourage proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. In addition to your Webster Groves, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful tips:

• Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring can result in pain. Your dentist may suggest you take over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain relievers if needed.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after your appointment, don’t try to eat any hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate your gums. Instead, try soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups and mashed potatoes.
• Take good care of your teeth — Brush and floss as you usually do, but use a lighter hand on the treated area to prevent irritation. Your dentist may also recommend prescription mouthwash to help prevent infection.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and drinking disrupt the body’s healing process and possibly add further complications. You need to avoid these substances until your dentist says it’s OK.
• Attend follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate your healing progress and remove any stitches. Make sure to attend these appointments as scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.

Generally speaking, minor swelling and sensitivity will subside after a few days, and most people can resume their normal routine after a week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Webster Groves, MO

Am I a Good Candidate For Gum Contouring?

If you have a “gummy smile”, gum contouring may be a good option for you.

Generally, the only the only “poor” candidates have a significant underlying dental issue, such as gum disease, periodontitis, or significant gum recession. Those dental problems are treated in their own way ensure your mouth is able to stand up to cosmetic procedures.

Requesting a consultation with a knowledgeable Webster Groves, MO dentist is the best way to know if you are a good fit for gum contouring.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?

No operation is completely without risks, but gum contouring is about as safe as a procedure can get. In addition to standard swelling or bleeding at first, gum contouring only has two associated risks:

• A rare allergic reaction to local anesthetic
• The gums growing back in

Apart from those, common side effects include:

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Pain or discomfort
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Changes in tooth shape
• Changes in gum texture

Will My Insurance Cover Gum Contouring?

Because gum contouring is classified as a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance will not cover it because they don’t consider it medically necessary. But, at Plaza Dental Center in Webster Groves, MO, we help as much as we can, for example accepting CareCredit. Contact our office for more information.

How Long Does It Take For Gum Contouring to Work?

You’ll notice the final results after a few weeks as your mouth adapts. However, you should notice considerable improvement in the appearance of your smile immediately after the procedure.

How Long Do The Results of Gum Contouring Last?

That depends (at least partly) on you! Properly caring for your teeth and gums and make the procedure last a lifetime. It is essential to follow good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and going for your bi-annual dental appointments. Limiting smoking and alcohol intake can also help keep your gums in shape.

Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Webster Groves, MO Today

While gum contouring is a safe and relatively quick procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Webster Groves, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona saw many complex cases early in his career, providing him with valuable experience that allows him to safely and proficiently carry out gun contouring procedures. He’s especially interested in treating Webster Groves, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Webster Groves, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.