Gum Contouring in Sunset Hills, MO
Gum contouring in Sunset Hills, MO. Have you ever noticed that your teeth look smaller or unevenly shaped due to large gums? That’s often referred to as “gummy smile,” which can be fixed through a cosmetic dental procedure called gum contouring.
Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping Sunset Hills, MO residents get the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We especially enjoy helping patients who are apprehensive about going to the dentists, 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 Sunset Hills, MO, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or contact us through our website.
What Causes Uneven Gums?
There are many 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 include:
- Genetics, including 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 bulge 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 swelling and excessive growth
- Certain medical conditions, for example some types of tumors, can cause gum overgrowth
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to the gums becoming more sensitive and susceptible to overgrowth
Fortunately, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Sunset Hills, MO who are looking to be more comfortable with their smile, gum contouring treatment allows you to get a minimally invasive 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 cutting out excess gum tissue or reshaping your current gum line to create a more symmetrical smile. Gum contouring is often done with specialized tools to carefully trim away the gum tissueuntil the dentist achieves the desired shape. Gum contouring can be done alongside other cosmetic dental procedures in Sunset Hills, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile perfect.
How Gum Contouring Is Done in Sunset Hills, MO
Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After discussing your options with your Sunset Hills, MO dentist, at your next appointment:
- The dentist will start by discussing the procedure with you. They may 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 specialized tool.
- The dentist may use sutures to temporarily close any cuts.
- Follow-up appointments may be made to monitor the healing process and ensure that the results meet your expectations.
After your visit, your Sunset Hills, MO dentist will give you instructions on how to encourage healing of your gums and minimize any adverse side effects.
Tips For a Smooth Gun Contouring Recovery in Sunset Hills, MO
In the days after your appointment, you need to take good care of your gums to promote the body’s natural healing process. In addition to your Sunset Hills, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful tips:
- Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring may cause some discomfort. Your dentist may recommend generic pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication in some cases.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after your gum contouring, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may damage the healing tissue. Instead, eat soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups and mashed potatoes.
- Follow good oral hygiene — Brush and floss as normal, but go easy on the area where your gums were cut to prevent aggravating anything. Your dentist may also suggest prescription mouthwash to help prevent infection.
- Don’t smoke or drink alcohol — Smoking and drinking disrupt the body’s healing process and increase your risk of complications. You should avoid these substances for at least several days after the procedure.
- Don’t miss your follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule future appointments to evaluate your healing progress and remove any stitches. Make sure to attend these appointments as scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.
Generally speaking, minor inflammation and pain will resolve themselves after a few days, and most people can resume full normal activities after a week.
FAQs About Gum Contouring in Sunset Hills, MO
Is Gum Contouring Right For Me?
If you have excess gum tissue that makes your teeth appear too short or if you have a “gummy smile”, gum contouring may be a good option for you.
Typically, the only the only “bad” candidates have a more serious underlying dental issue, such as gum disease, periodontitis, or people who have to little gum tissue. Those dental problems are treated in their own way ensure your mouth is healthy before moving on to cosmetic procedures.
Requesting an appointment with a professional Sunset Hills, MO dentist is the best way to know if gum contouring is right for you.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?
No surgery 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
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?
Because gum contouring is classified as a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance will view it as not medically necessary, which means it’s unlikely they’ll cover it. But, at Plaza Dental Center in Sunset Hills, 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 notice the final results after a few weeks as your mouth adapts. 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?
That depends (at least partly) on you! Properly caring for your teeth and gums and make gum contouring last a lifetime. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing consistently and visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. Limiting smoking and alcohol intake can also help keep your gums in shape.
Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Sunset Hills, MO Today
While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, you still need an experienced and qualified Sunset Hills, MO dentist to ensure it’s done right. Dr. Joseph Cutrona saw many complex cases during his residency, giving him valuable experience that allows him to get great results. He’s particularly interested in treating Sunset Hills, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Sunset Hills, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.