Normandy, MO

Gum Contouring in Normandy, MO

Gum contouring in Normandy, MO. Have you ever felt shy about your smile because of excessive or uneven gums? Do you think your teeth are smaller than they should be or that your smile appears gummy? If so, gum contouring can help. This cosmetic dental procedure is gaining popularity as a way to help people get the smile they deserve.

Plaza Dental Center is dedicated to helping Normandy, MO residents achieve the pearly whites they’ve always wanted. We particularly like treating patients who are anxious about having dental work done, as it’s important to us that everyone gets the dental care needed for a great smile and optimal oral health. If you’re looking to upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Normandy, MO, speak to a team member at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or contact us through our website.

What Causes Uneven Gums?

There are a wide range of factors that can lead to having too much gum tissue, and they have to do with 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 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 swelling and excessive growth
• Certain medical conditions, like Crohn’s disease, can cause gingival hyperplasia
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to become more sensitive and susceptible to excess growth

Fortunately, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Normandy, 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 gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or reshaping the existing gum line to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Gum contouring is often done with specialized tools to carefully remove the gum tissueuntil the dentist achieves the desired shape. Gum contouring can be done in tandem with additional cosmetic dentistry in Normandy, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.

The Gum Contouring Procedure in Normandy, MO

Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After discussing your options with your Normandy, MO dentist, at your next appointment:

• The dentist will start by reviewing 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 then use a specialized tool to carefully remove excess gum tissue and/or reshape the existing gum line.
• The dentist may use stitches to temporarily close any incisions.
• Follow-up appointments may be made to ensure you heal property and that your smile looks how you wanted.

Once you’re finished, your Normandy, MO dentist will teach you how to encourage healing of your gums and minimize any adverse side effects.

Tips For a Smooth Gun Contouring Recovery in Normandy, MO

After your visit, it’s important to take good care of your gums to promote proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. In addition to your Normandy, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful tips:

• Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring may cause some pain. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain relievers if needed.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Directly after your appointment, don’t try to chew on any hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may irritate your gums. Instead, eat soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups and mashed potatoes.
• Follow good oral hygiene — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but go easy on the treated area to prevent damaging them. Your dentist may also recommend prescription 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 a few days after the procedure.
• Don’t miss your follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate your healing progress and remove any stitches. Don’t miss these appointments as scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.

In most cases, minor inflammation and pain will go away after several days, and most people can go back to full normal activities after a week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Normandy, MO

Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?

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

Generally, the only times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a more serious underlying dental problem, such as gum disease, periodontitis, or people who have to little gum tissue. Those dental problems require different treatments that ensure your mouth is able to stand up to cosmetic procedures.

Making a consultation with an experienced Normandy, MO dentist will help you understand if you are a good fit for gum contouring.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?

No surgery is wholly without risks, but gum contouring is about as safe as a procedure can get. Beyond standard swelling or bleeding in the following days, 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 Pay For MY Gum Contouring?

As gum contouring is a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance will not pay for it because they don’t consider it medically necessary. But, at Plaza Dental Center in Normandy, MO, we help as much as we can, for example accepting CareCredit. Contact our office for more information.

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 should notice a significant 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 oral hygiene habits and lifestyle factors. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. Avoiding smoking and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can also help keep your gums in shape.

Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Normandy, MO Today

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