Gum Contouring in Northwoods, MO
Gum contouring in Northwoods, MO. Have you ever felt anxious 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 the answer is yes, gum contouring might be the solution for you. This cosmetic dental procedure is becoming more and more popular as a way to help people get the smile they deserve.
Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping Northwoods, MO residents achieve the pearly whites they’ve always wanted. We especially enjoy treating patients who are anxious about having dental work done, 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 make over your smile with gum contouring in Northwoods, MO, speak to a member of our staff at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment through our website.
Why Are My Gums Uneven?
There are numerous 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, including having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or just a family history of having 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 incorrect bite
- Certain medications that cause gums to grow too much
- Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and bulge out
- Certain medical conditions, for example 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 overgrowth
Fortunately, having more gum tissue than most doesn’t come with any other health risks. But for those in Northwoods, MO who are looking to be prouder of their smile, gum contouring treatment can provide a safe 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 removing gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or touching up your current gum line to give you a more symmetrical smile. The procedure is frequently done using specialized tools to carefully 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 additional cosmetic dentistry in Northwoods, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile shine.
The Gum Contouring Procedure in Northwoods, MO
Gum contouring can typically be completed in one visit. After a consultation with your Northwoods, MO dentist, at your next appointment:
- The dentist will start 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 numb the area.
- The dentist will then use a specialized tool to carefully remove excess gum tissue and/or reshape the existing gum line.
- The dentist may apply stitches to temporarily close any cuts.
- 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 Northwoods, MO dentist will teach you how to encourage healing of your gums and manage any adverse side effects.
Healing Process After Gum Contouring in Northwoods, MO
After your visit, you need to take good care of your gums to encourage proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. Beyond your Northwoods, MO dentists’ instructions, here are some helpful tips:
- Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring may cause some pain. Your dentist may suggest you take over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication if needed.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Directly following the procedure, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the healing tissue. Instead, eat soft, easy-to-chew foods like smoothies and mashed potatoes.
- Follow good oral hygiene — Brush and floss as you usually do, but go easy on the area where your gums were reduced to avoid aggravating anything. Your dentist may also suggest prescription mouthwash to help prevent infection.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and alcohol disrupt the body’s healing process and increase your risk of complications. You should avoid these substances until your dentist says it’s OK.
- Attend follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule future appointments to evaluate your healing progress and remove any stitches. Don’t miss these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.
Typically, minor swelling and sensitivity will resolve themselves after several days, and most people can go back to full normal activities after a week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring in Northwoods, MO
Should I Get Gum Contouring?
If you have a “gummy smile”, gum contouring may be a good option for you.
Generally, the only times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a more serious 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.
Requesting an appointment with a professional Northwoods, 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 completely without risks, but gum contouring is about as safe as a procedure can get. In addition to 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
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 Northwoods, 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 to See The Final Results of Gum Contouring?
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 immediately 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. You need to practice 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 preserve the results of gum contouring.
Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Northwoods, MO Today
While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Northwoods, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona was fortunate enough to treat large, difficult cases during his residency, providing him with valuable experience that allows him to safely and proficiently carry out gun contouring procedures. He’s especially interested in treating Northwoods, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Northwoods, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.