Gum Contouring in Clayton, MO
Gum contouring in Clayton, 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 gums cover most of your teeth? If the answer is yes, gum contouring can help. 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 Clayton, MO residents get the pearly whites they’ve always dreamed of. We especially like treating patients who are nervous in the dentists’ chair, as we believe no one should go without the dental care needed for a great smile and optimal oral health. If you want to make over your smile with gum contouring in Clayton, MO, speak to a team member at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or contact us online.
Why Are My Gums Uneven?
There are a wide range of factors that can lead to uneven gums and gums that make your teeth look small, and they have to do with the different parts that make up your mouth. The most common causes are:
- Genetics, for example having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or just 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 push out
- An incorrect bite
- Certain medications that cause gums to grow in excess
- Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing consistently, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and bulge out
- Certain medical conditions, for example some types of tumors, can cause abnormal growth in gums
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to the gums becoming more sensitive and susceptible to excess growth
Fortunately, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Clayton, MO who want to show off more of their teeth, 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 removing gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or touching up your current gum line to give you a more symmetrical smile. Gum contouring is usually done with specialized tools 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 Clayton, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.
How Gum Contouring Is Done in Clayton, MO
Gum contouring can typically be completed in one sitting. After discussing your options with your Clayton, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these 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 your gums.
- The dentist will reduce or reshape your gum line with a scalpel or laser.
- The dentist may use stitches to close any incisions made during the procedure.
- Later appointments may be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure that the results meet your expectations.
Once you’re finished, your Clayton, MO dentist will teach you how to protect your gums and minimize any discomfort or swelling.
Healing Process After Gum Contouring in Clayton, MO
In the days after your appointment, it’s important to ensure your gums heal correctly. Beyond your Clayton, 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 generic pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain relievers if needed.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Directly following your gum contouring, don’t try to chew on any hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the healing tissue. Instead, try soft, easy-to-chew foods like smoothies and mashed potatoes.
- Practice good oral hygiene — Brush and floss as you usually do, but go easy on the area where your gums were reduced to avoid aggravating anything. Your dentist may also suggest prescription mouthwash to help prevent infection.
- Don’t smoke or drink alcohol — Smoking and alcohol disrupt the body’s healing process and possibly add further complications. You should avoid them for at least several days after the procedure.
- Attend follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule future appointments to check on your healing progress and remove stitches (if they were used). Don’t miss these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.
In most cases, minor swelling and discomfort will resolve themselves after 1-3 days, and most people can go back to full normal activities after a week.
FAQs About Gum Contouring in Clayton, MO
Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?
If you have a “gummy smile”, you may be an ideal candidate for gum contouring.
Typically, the only the only “bad” candidates have a significant underlying dental condition, such as gum disease, periodontitis, or significant gum recession. Those dental problems are treated in their own way ensure your mouth is healthy before moving on to cosmetic procedures.
Requesting a consultation with a professional Clayton, MO dentist will help you understand 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 in the following days, gum contouring only has two known 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 a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance will view it as not medically necessary, which means they likely won’t cover it. However, at Plaza Dental Center in Clayton, MO, we work with our patients to get them the care they need at an affordable price, for example accepting CareCredit. Contact our office for more information.
How Long Does It Take For Gum Contouring to Work?
You’ll see the final results after a few weeks as your mouth adapts. However, you will notice some change immediately.
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 lifestyle and oral care habits. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing consistently and going for your routine dental appointments. Limiting smoking and alcohol intake can also help preserve the results of gum contouring.
Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Clayton, MO Today
While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Clayton, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona was fortunate enough to treat large, complicated cases during his residency, providing him with valuable experience that allows him to get great results. He’s especially interested in treating Clayton, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Clayton, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.