Gum Contouring

Gum Contouring in St. Louis

Gum contouring in St. Louis. Have you ever noticed that your teeth look smaller or unevenly shaped due to excess gum tissue? You may have a condition called a “gummy smile,” which can be corrected through a cosmetic dental procedure called gum contouring.

Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping St. Louis residents get the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We especially like working with patients who are apprehensive in the dentists’ chair, as we believe no one should go without the dental care they need. If you’re looking to make over your smile with gum contouring in St. Louis, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment online.

Why Are My Gums Uneven?

There are a lot of factors that can lead to uneven gums and gums that make your teeth look small, and they have to do with your teeth, lips, jaws, gum, and bite. The most common causes include:

• Genetics, including having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or simply a family history of having excess gum
• An upper lip that lifts too high when smiling
• Gingival hypertrophy (enlarged gums)
• Overgrowth of the upper jaw causing gum tissue to push 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 leukemia, Crohn’s disease, and 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 overgrowth

Fortunately, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in St. Louis who would prefer a more symmetrical smile, gum contouring treatment can provide a safe, minimally invasive smile makeover. In addition to gum contouring, your St. Louis dentist may be able to educate you on how to correct the issues that led to excess gums, such as an overbite.

What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves reshaping the gum line to improve the appearance of your teeth. This can be done by removing excess gum tissue or reshaping the existing gum line to create a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing smile. The procedure is often done using a scalpel or laser to carefully trim away the gum tissue, and the dentist will sculpt the gum line to create the desired shape. Gum contouring can be done in combination with other cosmetic dental procedures in St. Louis such as veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.

The Gum Contouring Procedure in St. Louis

Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After a consultation with your St. Louis dentist, the procedure can typically be completed in one appointment with the following steps:

• The dentist will begin by going over the procedure with you. They may mark your new gum line with a pen so you can see how your gums will be reshaped.
• Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area and prevent any discomfort during the procedure.
• The dentist will then use a scalpel or laser to carefully remove excess gum tissue and/or reshape the existing gum line.
• The gum line will be sculpted to the desired shape to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing look.
• The dentist may use sutures to close any incisions made during the procedure.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure that the results meet your expectations.

After your visit, your St. Louis dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your gums and minimize any discomfort or swelling.

Gum Contouring Recovery in St. Louis

After the procedure, it’s important to take good care of your gums to promote proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. Beyond your St. Louis dentists’ instructions, here are some helpful tips:

• Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring may cause some discomfort or pain. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication if needed. Take these medications as directed to manage your pain and discomfort.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after the procedure, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may irritate your gums or damage the healing tissue. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes.
• Practice good oral hygiene — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but be gentle around the treated area to avoid irritation. Your dentist may also recommend a special mouthwash to help promote healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and alcohol can slow down the healing process and increase your risk of complications. It’s best to avoid these substances for at least a few days after the procedure.
• Attend follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your healing progress and remove any stitches. Make sure to attend these appointments as scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.

Generally speaking, minor inflammation and sensitivity will subside after a few days, and most people can resume full normal activities after a week.

FAQs About Gum Contouring in St. Louis

Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?

If you have excess gum tissue that makes your teeth appear too short, uneven or if you have a gummy smile, gum contouring may be an appropriate option for you. As a cosmetic procedure, gum contouring can be helpful for almost anyone with excess gums who wants to upgrade their smile.

Typically, the only times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a more serious underlying dental condition, such as gum disease, periodontitis, or significant gum recession. Those dental problems require different treatments that ensure your mouth is healthy before moving on to cosmetic procedures.

Making an appointment with a professional St. Louis dentist is the best way to know if gum contouring is right for you.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?

No surgery is completely without risks, but gum contouring is about as safe as a procedure can get. Beyond 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

Beyond those, there are a few reactions that are not serious, but are common after gum contouring:

• 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?

As gum contouring is a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance will view it as not medically necessary, which means it’s unlikely they’ll cover it. However, at Plaza Dental Center in St. Louis, we work with our patients to get them the care they need at an affordable price, for example accepting CareCredit. Contact our office to learn more.

How Long Does It Take to See The Final Results of Gum Contouring?

The final results of gum contouring can take several weeks to appear as the gums heal and adjust to their new shape. However, you should notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your smile immediately after the procedure.

How Long Do The Results of Gum Contouring Last?

The results of gum contouring can last for several years or even a lifetime, depending on your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle factors. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. Avoiding smoking and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can also help preserve the results of gum contouring.

Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in St. Louis Today

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