Gum Contouring in Brentwood, MO
Gum contouring in Brentwood, MO. Have you ever noticed that your teeth look smaller or unevenly shaped due to large gums? That’s often referred to as “gummy smile,” which can be fixed through a cosmetic dental procedure called gum contouring.
Plaza Dental Center is dedicated to helping Brentwood, MO residents get the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We especially enjoy 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 Brentwood, MO, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment through our website.
Why Are My Gums Uneven?
There are many factors that can lead to having too much gum tissue, and they have to do with the different parts that make up your mouth. The most common causes include:
- Genetics, including having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or simply a family history of having excess gums
- An upper lip that lifts 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 too much
- Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing regularly, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and bulge out
- Certain medical conditions, for instance Crohn’s disease, can cause abnormal growth in gums
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to the gums becoming more sensitive and prone to excess growth
Fortunately, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Brentwood, 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 relatively simple procedure in which a dentist reshapes your gums to reduce their size. This can be done by cutting out excess gum tissue or reshaping the existing gum line to create a more symmetrical smile. Gum contouring is usually done with a scalpel or laser to gently trim away the gum tissue, and the dentist will sculpt the gum line to create the desired shape. Gum contouring can be done in concert with additional cosmetic dentistry in Brentwood, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.
How Gum Contouring Is Done in Brentwood, MO
Gum contouring can typically be completed in one visit. After a consultation with your Brentwood, MO dentist, at your next appointment:
- The dentist will begin by discussing the procedure with you. Sometimes, they’ll draw a line where the new gum line will be so you can see what your new smile will look like.
- Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area.
- The dentist will then use a scalpel or laser to carefully remove excess gum tissue and/or reshape the existing gum line.
- The dentist may use sutures to temporarily close any incisions.
- Later appointments may be made to ensure you heal property and that your smile looks like what you were expecting.
After your visit, your Brentwood, MO dentist will teach you how to care for your gums and manage any adverse side effects.
Tips For a Smooth Gun Contouring Recovery in Brentwood, MO
In the days after your visit, it’s important to ensure your mouth heals properly. In addition to your Brentwood, MO dentists’ instructions, here are some helpful pieces of advice:
- Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring may cause some pain. Your dentist may suggest you take over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication in some cases.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after the procedure, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may damage the healing tissue. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups and mashed potatoes.
- Practice good oral hygiene — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but use a lighter hand on the area where your gums were cut to avoid aggravating anything. Your dentist may also suggest a special mouthwash to help promote healing.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and alcohol disrupt the body’s healing process and possibly add further 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. Don’t miss these appointments as scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.
Generally speaking, minor inflammation and sensitivity will go away after 1-3 days, and most people can resume their normal routine after a week.
FAQs About Gum Contouring in Brentwood, MO
Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?
If you have a “gummy smile”, gum contouring may be a good option for you.
Generally, the only times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a significant underlying dental condition, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, or significant gum recession. Those dental problems require different treatments that ensure your mouth is able to stand up to cosmetic procedures.
Making a consultation with a professional Brentwood, MO 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 entirely without risks, but there’s no reason to be nervous about gum contouring. In addition to standard swelling or bleeding in the following days, gum contouring only has two associated risks:
- An uncommon allergic reaction to local anesthetic
- The gums growing back in
Beyond 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 Pay For MY Gum Contouring?
As gum contouring is categorized as a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance will not pay for it because they don’t consider it medically necessary. But, at Plaza Dental Center in Brentwood, MO, we work with our patients to get them the care they need without breaking the bank, for example accepting CareCredit. Contact our office to learn more.
How Long Does It Take For Gum Contouring to Work?
The final results of gum contouring can take several weeks to appear as your mouth adapts. However, you should notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your smile right 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 follow good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing consistently and visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. Limiting smoking and alcohol intake can also help keep your gums in shape.
Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Brentwood, MO Today
While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Brentwood, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona saw many complex cases during his residency, providing him with valuable experience that allows him to get great results. He’s especially interested in treating Brentwood, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Brentwood, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.