Olivette, MO

Gum Contouring in Olivette, MO

Gum contouring in Olivette, MO. Have you ever felt self-conscious about your smile because of excessive or uneven gums? Do you feel like your teeth are too short or that your smile appears gummy? If the answer is yes, 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 Olivette, MO residents achieve the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We especially like helping patients who are nervous 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 upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Olivette, MO, speak to a team member at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment through our website.

Why Are My Gums Uneven?

There are a lot of factors that can result in having too much gum tissue, and they have to do with your teeth, lips, jaws, gum, and bite. The most common causes include:

• Genetics, for example having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or simply 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 push out
• An incorrect bite
• Certain medications that cause gums to grow in excess
• 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 leukemia, can cause gum overgrowth
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to become more sensitive and prone to excess growth

Luckily, having more gum tissue than most doesn’t come with any other health risks. But for those in Olivette, MO who would prefer a more symmetrical smile, gum contouring treatment can provide a simple 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 create a more symmetrical smile. The procedure is usually done with 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 alongside other cosmetic dental procedures in Olivette, MO like veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile shine.

The Gum Contouring Procedure in Olivette, MO

Gum contouring can typically be completed in one visit. After a consultation with your Olivette, MO dentist, at your next appointment:

• 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 what your new smile will look like.
• Local anesthesia will be administered to numb your gums.
• The dentist will then use a scalpel or laser to carefully remove excess gum tissue and/or reshape the existing gum line.
• The dentist may apply stitches to temporarily close any incisions.
• Follow-up appointments may be requested to ensure you heal property and that the results meet your expectations.

Once you’re finished, your Olivette, MO dentist will give you instructions on how to encourage healing of your gums and minimize any discomfort or swelling.

Gum Contouring Recovery in Olivette, MO

After your appointment, it’s important to take good care of your gums to promote proper healing and minimize any discomfort or complications. Beyond your Olivette, MO dentists’ instructions, here are some helpful tips:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers — Gum contouring may cause some discomfort. Your dentist may suggest you take over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain relievers if needed.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after your gum contouring, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the healing tissue. Instead, try soft, easy-to-chew foods like smoothies and mashed potatoes.
• Take good care of your teeth — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but use a lighter hand on the treated area to avoid damaging them. Your dentist may also recommend a special mouthwash to help prevent infection.
• Don’t smoke or drink alcohol — Smoking and alcohol can slow down the healing process and possibly add further complications. You need to avoid them until your dentist says it’s OK.
• Don’t miss your 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 scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.

Generally speaking, minor inflammation and sensitivity will subside after a few days, and most people can resume their normal routine after a week.

FAQs About Gum Contouring in Olivette, MO

Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?

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

Typically, the only the only “bad” candidates have a significant 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 a knowledgeable Olivette, 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 wholly without risks, but gum contouring is about as safe as a procedure can get. In addition to standard swelling or bleeding at first, gum contouring only has two associated risks:

• An uncommon allergic reaction to local anesthetic
• The gums growing back in

Beyond 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?

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

How Long Does It Take to See The Final Results of Gum Contouring?

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 caring for 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 consistently 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 Olivette, MO Today

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