Gum Contouring in Jennings, MO
Gum contouring in Jennings, MO. Have you ever noticed that your teeth look short due to excess gum tissue? You may have a condition called a “gummy smile,” which can be corrected through a cosmetic dental procedure known as gum contouring.
Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping Jennings, MO residents achieve the smile they’ve always wanted. We especially like helping patients who are nervous about having dental work done, as it’s important to us that everyone gets the dental care they need. If you’re looking to upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Jennings, MO, speak to a member of our staff at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment through our website.
What Causes Uneven Gums?
There are a lot of factors that can cause having too much gum tissue, and they involve different aspects of your teeth, lips, jaws, gum, and bite. The most common causes include:
- Genetics, for example having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or just a family history of having excess gums
- An upper lip that moves up too high when smiling
- Gingival hypertrophy (enlarged gums)
- Overgrowth of the upper jaw causing gum tissue to bulge out
- An incorrect bite
- Certain medications that cause gums to grow in excess
- Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing every day, which can cause swelling and excessive growth
- Certain medical conditions, for instance leukemia, can cause gingival hyperplasia
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to become more sensitive and prone to overgrowth
Fortunately, having excess gum doesn’t come with any other health risks. But for those in Jennings, 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 gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or reshaping the existing gum line to give you a more symmetrical smile. The procedure is often 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 alongside additional cosmetic dentistry in Jennings, MO like veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile perfect.
The Gum Contouring Procedure in Jennings, MO
Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After discussing gum contouring with your Jennings, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:
- The dentist will begin by reviewing 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 numb your gums.
- The dentist will reduce or reshape your gum line with a specialized tool.
- The dentist may apply sutures to close any incisions made during the procedure.
- Follow-up appointments may be requested to ensure you heal property and that the results meet your expectations.
After your visit, your Jennings, MO dentist will teach you how to care for your gums and minimize any uncomfortable side effects.
Healing Process After Gum Contouring in Jennings, MO
In the days after your gum contouring, you need to take good care of your gums to promote proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. In addition to your Jennings, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful pieces of advice:
- Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring may cause some pain. Your dentist may recommend generic pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain relievers if needed.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Directly after the procedure, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the healing tissue. Instead, try soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups and mashed potatoes.
- Take good care of your teeth — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but be gentle around the area where your gums were cut to avoid irritation. Your dentist may also suggest prescription mouthwash to help prevent infection.
- Don’t smoke or drink alcohol — Smoking and drinking disrupt the body’s healing process and possibly add further complications. It’s best to avoid these substances until your dentist says it’s OK.
- Attend 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). Make sure to attend these appointments as scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.
In most cases, minor swelling and discomfort will subside after 1-3 days, and most people can resume full normal activities after a week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Jennings, MO
Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?
If you have a “gummy smile”, you may be an ideal gum contouring patient.
Typically, the only the only “bad” candidates have a more serious underlying dental problem, 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.
Scheduling a consultation with an experienced Jennings, MO dentist is the best way to know if gum contouring is right for you.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?
No operation is entirely without risks, but there’s no reason to be scared of gum contouring. 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 categorized as 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 Jennings, 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 considerable improvement in the appearance of your smile immediately after the procedure.
How Long Do The Results of Gum Contouring Last?
That depends (at least partly) on you! Properly looking after your teeth and gums and make the procedure last a lifetime. It is essential to practice good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and going for your bi-annual dental appointments. 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 Jennings, MO Today
While gum contouring is a safe and relatively quick procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Jennings, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona saw many complex cases early in his career, giving him valuable experience that allows him to safely and proficiently carry out gun contouring procedures. He’s especially interested in treating Jennings, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Jennings, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.