Velda Village, MO

Gum Contouring in Velda Village, MO

Gum contouring in Velda Village, 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 gums cover most of your teeth? If so, gum contouring can help. This cosmetic dental procedure is gaining popularity as a way to improve the appearance of one’s smile.

Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping Velda Village, MO residents achieve the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We especially like helping patients who are nervous about going to the dentists, as we believe no one should go without the dental care they need. If you want to upgrade your smile with gum contouring in Velda Village, MO, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or contact us online.

What Causes Uneven Gums?

There are many factors that can lead to 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 include:

• Genetics, including having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or just 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 push out
• An incorrect bite
• Certain medications that cause gums to grow abnormally
• Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing and flossing regularly, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and overgrow
• Certain medical conditions, for example Crohn’s disease, can cause gum overgrowth
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to become more sensitive and susceptible to overgrowth

Luckily, having excess gum doesn’t come with any other health risks. But for those in Velda Village, 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 excess gum tissue or touching up the existing gum line to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Gum contouring is often done using a scalpel or laser to carefully remove the gum tissueuntil the dentist achieves the shape you’re looking for. Gum contouring can be done alongside other cosmetic dental procedures in Velda Village, MO like veneers or teeth whitening to make your smile shine.

How Gum Contouring Is Done in Velda Village, MO

Gum contouring can typically be completed in one appointment. After a consultation with your Velda Village, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:

• The dentist will begin by going over the procedure with you. Sometimes, they’ll 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 pain during the procedure.
• The dentist will reduce or reshape your gum line with a scalpel or laser.
• The dentist may use sutures to temporarily close any cuts.
• Later appointments may be made to monitor the healing process and ensure that your smile looks like what you were expecting.

After your appointment, your Velda Village, MO dentist will tell you how to protect your gums and manage any discomfort or swelling.

Gum Contouring Recovery in Velda Village, MO

After your visit, it’s important to ensure your gums heal properly. Beyond your Velda Village, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful tips:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers — Gum contouring may cause some discomfort. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication if needed.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — In the first few days after the procedure, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may irritate your gums. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups and mashed potatoes.
• Practice good oral hygiene — Brush and floss as normal, but be gentle around the area where your gums were cut to avoid aggravating anything. Your dentist may also recommend a special mouthwash to help promote healing.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and drinking disrupt the body’s healing process and possibly add further complications. You should 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 check on how you’re healing and remove any stitches. Make sure to attend these appointments as scheduled to ensure a successful recovery.

Generally speaking, minor swelling and pain will subside after 1-3 days, and most people can resume full normal activities after a week.

FAQs About Gum Contouring in Velda Village, 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 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.

Scheduling an appointment with a professional Velda Village, 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 completely without risks, but gum contouring is simple and safe. Beyond 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 Cover Gum Contouring?

As 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 Velda Village, MO, we work with our patients to get them the care they need at an affordable price, 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?

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 regularly and going for your routine dental appointments. 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 Velda Village, MO Today

While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, it needs to be done by a dentist in Velda Village, MO who has the experience and expertise to do it well. Dr. Joseph Cutrona saw many difficult cases early in his career, providing him with valuable experience that allows him to safely and proficiently carry out gun contouring procedures. He’s especially interested in treating Velda Village, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Velda Village, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.