Gum Contouring in Glendale, MO
Gum contouring in Glendale, MO. Have you ever thought that your teeth look like they’re different sizes because of excess gum tissue? You may have a condition called a “gummy smile,” which can be fixed through a cosmetic dental procedure known as gum contouring.
Plaza Dental Center is dedicated to helping Glendale, MO residents get the pearly whites they’ve always wanted. We especially enjoy working with patients who are apprehensive about having dental work done, as we believe no one should go without the dental care they need. If you’re looking to upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Glendale, MO, speak to a team member at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment through our website.
What Causes Uneven Gums?
There are numerous factors that can result in uneven gums and gums that make your teeth look short, and they have to do with your teeth, lips, jaws, gum, and bite. 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 bulge out
- An improper bite
- Certain medications that cause gums to grow abnormally
- Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly, which can cause swelling and excessive growth
- Certain medical conditions, such as leukemia, 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, having excess gum doesn’t come with any other health risks. But for those in Glendale, MO who would prefer a more symmetrical smile, gum contouring treatment can provide a minimally invasive smile makeover.
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 cutting out excess gum tissue or reshaping the existing gum line to create a more symmetrical smile. The procedure is often done using specialized tools to carefully remove the gum tissueuntil the dentist achieves the shape you’re looking for. Gum contouring can be done alongside additional cosmetic dentistry in Glendale, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.
How Gum Contouring Is Done in Glendale, MO
Gum contouring can typically be completed in one visit. After a consultation with your Glendale, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:
- 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 how your gums will be reshaped.
- Local anesthesia will be administered to prevent any pain during the procedure.
- The dentist will then use a specialized tool to carefully remove excess gum tissue and/or reshape the existing gum line.
- The dentist may use sutures to temporarily close any incisions.
- Follow-up appointments may be requested to monitor the healing process and ensure that your smile looks like what you were expecting.
Once you’re finished, your Glendale, MO dentist will teach you how to care for your gums and minimize any adverse side effects.
Gum Contouring Recovery in Glendale, MO
After your appointment, it’s important to ensure your gums heal properly. In addition to your Glendale, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful tips:
- Take over-the-counter pain medication — 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 — Directly after your gum contouring, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate your gums. Instead, eat soft, easy-to-chew foods like smoothies and mashed potatoes.
- Follow good oral hygiene — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but use a lighter hand on the treated area to avoid irritation. Your dentist may also suggest prescription mouthwash to help promote healing.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and drinking disrupt the body’s healing process and increase your risk of complications. You need to avoid them until your dentist says it’s OK.
- 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 scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.
Typically, minor inflammation and sensitivity will resolve themselves after a few days, and most people can go back to their normal routine after a week.
FAQs About Gum Contouring in Glendale, MO
Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?
If you have a “gummy smile”, you may be an ideal gum contouring patient.
Generally, the only the only “bad” candidates have a more serious underlying dental issue, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, or significant gum recession. Those dental problems require different treatments that ensure your mouth is healthy before moving on to cosmetic procedures.
Requesting an appointment with an experienced Glendale, MO dentist will help you understand if you are a good candidate for gum contouring.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?
No operation is wholly without risks, but there’s no reason to be scared of 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
Apart from those, there are a few reactions that are nothing to worry about, 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?
Because 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 Glendale, MO, 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?
You’ll see the final results after a few weeks 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?
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 consistently 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 Glendale, MO Today
While gum contouring is a safe and relatively quick procedure, it needs to be done by a dentist in Glendale, 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 safely and proficiently carry out gun contouring procedures. He’s particularly interested in treating Glendale, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Glendale, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.