Ferguson, MO

Gum Contouring in Ferguson, MO

Gum contouring in Ferguson, MO. Have you ever thought that your teeth look short due to excess gum tissue? That’s often referred to as “gummy smile,” which can be fixed through a cosmetic dental procedure known as gum contouring.

Plaza Dental Center is dedicated to helping Ferguson, MO residents achieve the pearly whites they’ve always wanted. We especially like treating patients who are nervous about having dental work done, as we believe no one should go without the dental care needed for a great smile and optimal oral health. If you’re looking to feel great about your smile with gum contouring in Ferguson, MO, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment through our website.

What Causes Uneven Gums?

There are numerous factors that can cause uneven gums and gums that make your teeth look short, and they involve different aspects of 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 push out
• An incorrect bite
• Certain medications that cause gums to grow too much
• Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing consistently, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and bulge out
• Certain medical conditions, for instance some types of tumors, can cause gum overgrowth
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to become more sensitive and prone to excess growth

Luckily, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Ferguson, MO who are looking to be prouder of their 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 removing gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or reshaping your current gum line to give you a more symmetrical smile. Gum contouring is often done using a scalpel or laser to gently remove 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 Ferguson, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile shine.

How Gum Contouring Is Done in Ferguson, MO

Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After a consultation with your Ferguson, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:

• The dentist will start by reviewing 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 prevent any pain during the procedure.
• The dentist will reduce or reshape your gum line with a specialized tool.
• The dentist may apply sutures to temporarily close any incisions.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure you heal property and that the results meet your expectations.

Once you’re finished, your Ferguson, MO dentist will give you instructions on how to protect your gums and manage any adverse side effects.

Gum Contouring Recovery in Ferguson, MO

In the days after your appointment, you need to take good care of your gums to encourage proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. Beyond your Ferguson, MO dentists’ instructions, here are some helpful pieces of advice:

• Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring can result in pain. Your dentist may suggest you take store-bought pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain relievers if needed.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Directly after your appointment, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate your gums. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like smoothies and mashed potatoes.
• Practice good oral hygiene — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but go easy on the treated area to avoid damaging them. Your dentist may also advise a special mouthwash to help encourage healing.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and drinking disrupt the body’s healing process and increase your risk of complications. You need to avoid these substances for at least several days after the procedure.
• Don’t miss your follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to check on how you’re healing and remove stitches (if they were used). Don’t miss these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.

Typically, minor swelling and sensitivity will subside after 1-3 days, and most people can go back to full normal activities after a week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Ferguson, MO

Am I a Good Candidate For Gum Contouring?

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 the only “bad” candidates have a more serious underlying dental problem, such as gum disease, periodontitis, or people who have receded gums. Those dental problems require different treatments that ensure your mouth is healthy before moving on to cosmetic procedures.

Making an appointment with a knowledgeable Ferguson, 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 completely without risks, but there’s no reason to be nervous about gum contouring. Beyond standard swelling or bleeding at first, gum contouring only has two known risks:

• A rare 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 Cover Gum Contouring?

As gum contouring is classified as 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 Ferguson, 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 the gums heal and adjust to their new shape. 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 maintain 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 Ferguson, MO Today

While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, it needs to be done by a dentist in Ferguson, MO who has the experience and expertise to do it correctly. Dr. Joseph Cutrona was fortunate enough to treat large, difficult cases early in his career, providing him with valuable experience that allows him to get great results. He’s especially interested in treating Ferguson, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Ferguson, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.