Gum Contouring in Kirkwood, MO
Gum contouring in Kirkwood, MO. Have you ever thought that your teeth look short because of large gums? You may have a condition called a “gummy smile,” which can be corrected through a cosmetic dental procedure called gum contouring.
Plaza Dental Center is dedicated to helping Kirkwood, MO residents get the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We particularly enjoy helping patients who are anxious in the dentists’ chair, 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 feel great about your smile with gum contouring in Kirkwood, 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 many factors that can result in uneven gums and gums that make your teeth look small, and they involve different aspects of your teeth, lips, jaws, gum, and bite. The most common causes are:
- Genetics, for example having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or simply 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, such as not brushing and flossing consistently, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and overgrow
- Certain medical conditions, for instance some types of tumors, can cause gingival hyperplasia
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to the gums becoming more sensitive and prone to excess growth
Luckily, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Kirkwood, MO who want to show off more of their pearly whites, gum contouring treatment offers 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 excess gum tissue or touching up the existing gum line to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. The procedure is usually done using a scalpel or laser to gently trim away 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 Kirkwood, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.
The Gum Contouring Procedure in Kirkwood, MO
Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After discussing gum contouring with your Kirkwood, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:
- The dentist will begin by discussing the procedure with you. Sometimes, they’ll mark your new gum line with a pen so you can see what it will look like.
- Local anesthesia will be administered to prevent any pain during the procedure.
- 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 made to ensure you heal property and that your smile looks like what you were expecting.
After your gum contouring, your Kirkwood, MO dentist will teach you how to protect your gums and minimize any discomfort or swelling.
Gum Contouring Recovery in Kirkwood, MO
In the days after your gum contouring, it’s important to ensure your mouth heals correctly. Beyond your Kirkwood, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful pieces of advice:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers — Gum contouring may cause some discomfort. Your dentist may recommend 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 soups and mashed potatoes.
- Take good care of your teeth — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but go easy on the treated area to prevent damaging them. Your dentist may also suggest a special 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. You need to avoid them until your dentist says it’s OK.
- Attend follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate your healing progress and remove stitches (if they were used). Make sure to attend these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.
Typically, minor swelling and sensitivity will go away after a few days, and most people can resume full normal activities after a week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Kirkwood, MO
Should I Get Gum Contouring?
If you have a “gummy smile”, gum contouring may be a good option for you.
Typically, the only times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a significant underlying dental problem, such as gum disease, periodontitis, or significant gum recession. Those dental problems require different treatments that ensure your mouth is healthy before moving on to cosmetic procedures.
Making a consultation with a knowledgeable Kirkwood, MO dentist is the best way to know 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 associated 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?
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. But, at Plaza Dental Center in Kirkwood, MO, we help as much as we can, 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 will notice some change immediately.
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. You need to practice good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing consistently and going for your routine dental appointments. Avoiding smoking and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can also help keep your gums in shape.
Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Kirkwood, MO Today
While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Kirkwood, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona saw many difficult cases during his residency, providing him with valuable experience that allows him to get great results. He’s especially interested in treating Kirkwood, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Kirkwood, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.