Maplewood, MO

Gum Contouring in Maplewood, MO

Gum contouring in Maplewood, MO. Have you ever thought 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 called gum contouring.

Plaza Dental Center is dedicated to helping Maplewood, MO residents get the smile they’ve always wanted. We especially like working with patients who are anxious 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’re looking to upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Maplewood, MO, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or contact us online.

What Causes Uneven Gums?

There are many factors that can result in uneven gums and gums that make your teeth look small, 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 moves up 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 every day, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and overgrow
• Certain medical conditions, like leukemia, can cause gum overgrowth
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to the gums becoming more sensitive and prone to overgrowth

Fortunately, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Maplewood, MO who would prefer a more symmetrical smile, gum contouring treatment can provide a safe smile makeover.

What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure in which a dentist reshapes your gums to reduce their size. This can be done by cutting out excess gum tissue or reshaping your current gum line to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Gum contouring is frequently 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 tandem with other cosmetic dental procedures in Maplewood, MO like veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.

How Gum Contouring Is Done in Maplewood, MO

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

• The dentist will start by discussing the procedure with you. They may draw a line where the new gum line will be so you can see what it will look like.
• Local anesthesia will be administered to prevent any discomfort during the procedure.
• The dentist will reduce or reshape your gum line with a specialized tool.
• The dentist may use stitches to temporarily close any cuts.
• Later appointments may be requested to monitor the healing process and ensure that your smile looks like what you were expecting.

After your gum contouring, your Maplewood, MO dentist will teach you how to protect your gums and manage any discomfort or swelling.

Gum Contouring Recovery in Maplewood, MO

After your appointment, you need to take good care of your gums to promote proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. In addition to your Maplewood, MO dentists’ instructions, here are some helpful pieces of advice:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers — Gum contouring can result in discomfort. Your dentist may recommend store-bought pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication if needed.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after your gum contouring, don’t try to chew on any 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 — Brush and floss as normal, but be gentle around the treated area to prevent damaging them. Your dentist may also advise a special mouthwash to help prevent infection.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and drinking can slow down the healing process and increase your risk of complications. It’s best to avoid them for at least a few days after the procedure.
• Attend follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate how you’re healing and remove stitches (if they were used). Make sure to attend these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.

In most cases, minor swelling and sensitivity will resolve themselves after several days, and most people can resume their normal routine after a week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Maplewood, MO

Am I a Good Candidate For Gum Contouring?

If you have excess gum tissue that makes your teeth appear smaller or if you have a “gummy smile”, gum contouring may be a good option for you.

Generally, the only the only “poor” candidates have a significant underlying dental condition, 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.

Making an appointment with an experienced Maplewood, MO dentist is the best way to know if you are a good fit for gum contouring.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?

No surgery 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

Apart from 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 categorized as a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance will not pay for it because they don’t consider it medically necessary. However, at Plaza Dental Center in Maplewood, MO, we work with our patients to get them the care they need without breaking the bank, for example accepting CareCredit. Contact our office for more information.

How Long Does It Take For Gum Contouring to Work?

You’ll notice the final results after a few weeks as your mouth adapts. However, you should notice considerable improvement in the appearance of your smile right after the procedure.

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 Maplewood, MO Today

While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Maplewood, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona saw many complicated cases early in his career, giving him valuable experience that allows him to get great results. He’s especially interested in treating Maplewood, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Maplewood, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.