Gum Contouring in Central West End, MO
Gum contouring in Central West End, MO. Have you ever felt shy about your smile because of excessive or uneven gums? Do you feel like your teeth are smaller than they should be or that your gums cover most of your teeth? If so, gum contouring can help. This cosmetic dental procedure is gaining popularity as a way to improve the appearance of one’s smile.
Plaza Dental Center is dedicated to helping Central West End, MO residents achieve the pearly whites they’ve always wanted. We particularly enjoy helping patients who are apprehensive about going to the dentists, as it’s important to us that everyone gets the dental care needed for a great smile and optimal oral health. If you want to upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Central West End, MO, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or contact us through our website.
Why Are My Gums Uneven?
There are numerous factors that can lead to having too much gum tissue, and they involve different aspects of the different parts that make up your mouth. 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 lifts too high when smiling
- Gingival hypertrophy (enlarged gums)
- Overgrowth of the upper jaw causing gum tissue to push out
- An incorrect bite
- Certain medications that cause gums to grow abnormally
- Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing consistently, which can cause swelling and excessive growth
- Certain medical conditions, for example some types of tumors, can cause gum overgrowth
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to the gums becoming more sensitive and prone to overgrowth
Fortunately, having excess gum doesn’t come with any other health risks. But for those in Central West End, MO who would prefer a more symmetrical smile, gum contouring treatment allows you to get a safe smile makeover.
What is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure that involves reshaping the gum line to improve the appearance of your teeth. This can be done by cutting out excess gum tissue or reshaping the existing gum line to give you a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Gum contouring is frequently done using 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 concert with other cosmetic dental procedures in Central West End, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile perfect.
How Gum Contouring Is Done in Central West End, MO
Gum contouring can typically be completed in one visit. After discussing your options with your Central West End, MO dentist, at your next appointment:
- The dentist will begin by going over the procedure with you. Sometimes, they’ll 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 your gums.
- 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 close any incisions made during the procedure.
- Follow-up appointments may be requested to monitor the healing process and ensure that the results meet your expectations.
Once you’re finished, your Central West End, MO dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your gums and minimize any discomfort or swelling.
Healing Process After Gum Contouring in Central West End, MO
After your appointment, it’s important to take good care of your gums to promote the body’s natural healing process. Beyond your Central West End, MO dentists’ instructions, here are some helpful pieces of advice:
- Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring can result in pain. Your dentist may recommend store-bought pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication if needed.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after your appointment, don’t try to chew on any hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate your gums. 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 prevent aggravating anything. Your dentist may also advise prescription mouthwash to help prevent infection.
- Don’t smoke or drink alcohol — Smoking and drinking disrupt the body’s healing process and increase your risk of complications. You should avoid these substances until your dentist says it’s OK.
- Don’t miss your follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule future appointments to evaluate how you’re healing and remove any stitches. Don’t miss these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.
Typically, minor inflammation and discomfort will resolve themselves after several days, and most people can go back to full normal activities after a week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Central West End, MO
Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?
If you have excess gum tissue that makes your teeth appear too short or if you have a “gummy smile”, gum contouring may be an appropriate option for you.
Generally, the only times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a significant underlying dental problem, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, or people who have to little gum tissue. Those dental problems are treated differently ensure your mouth is healthy before moving on to cosmetic procedures.
Making a consultation with an experienced Central West End, MO dentist will help you understand if gum contouring is right for you.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?
No medical procedure is wholly without risks, but gum contouring is simple and safe. 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
Apart from 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 Pay For MY 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. But, at Plaza Dental Center in Central West End, 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?
The final results of gum contouring can take several weeks to appear as your mouth adapts. However, you will notice some change immediately.
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 gum contouring last a lifetime. You need to follow good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing consistently 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 Central West End, MO Today
While gum contouring is a safe and relatively quick procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Central West End, MO 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 get great results. He’s especially interested in treating Central West End, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Central West End, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.