Warson Woods, MO

Gum Contouring in Warson Woods, MO

Gum contouring in Warson Woods, 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 can help. This cosmetic dental procedure is gaining popularity as a way to help people get the smile they deserve.

Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping Warson Woods, MO residents achieve the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We especially enjoy treating patients who are nervous about going to the dentists, as it’s important to us that everyone gets the dental care needed for a great smile and optimal oral health. If you want to make over your smile with gum contouring in Warson Woods, MO, call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment online.

Why Are My Gums Uneven?

There are numerous factors that can result in 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 are:

• Genetics, including having a short upper lip, altered passive eruption, or just 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 improper bite
• Certain medications that cause gums to grow abnormally
• Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing consistently, which can cause the gums to become inflamed and overgrow
• Certain medical conditions, for instance Crohn’s disease, can cause abnormal growth in gums
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to become more sensitive and prone to overgrowth

Luckily, there aren’t any physical health risks associated with excess gums. But for those in Warson Woods, MO who would prefer a more symmetrical smile, gum contouring treatment can provide a minimally invasive smile makeover.

What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure in which gums are reshaped to reduce how noticeable they are. This can be done by cutting out gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or touching up the existing gum line to give you a more symmetrical smile. Gum contouring is frequently done using a scalpel or laser to gently remove the gum tissue, and the dentist will sculpt the gum line to create the desired shape. Gum contouring can be done alongside additional cosmetic dentistry in Warson Woods, MO such as veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.

The Gum Contouring Procedure in Warson Woods, MO

Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After a consultation with your Warson Woods, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:

• The dentist will begin by reviewing the procedure with you. They may 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 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 requested to monitor the healing process and ensure that the results meet your expectations.

Once you’re finished, your Warson Woods, MO dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your gums and manage any discomfort or swelling.

Healing Process After Gum Contouring in Warson Woods, MO

In the days after your visit, it’s important to ensure your mouth heals properly. Beyond your Warson Woods, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful tips:

• Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring can result in pain. Your dentist may recommend store-bought pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain relievers in some cases.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Directly following the procedure, don’t try to eat any hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the healing tissue. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like soups and mashed potatoes.
• Follow good oral hygiene — Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but be gentle around the area where your gums were reduced to avoid damaging them. Your dentist may also suggest a special mouthwash to help encourage healing.
• Avoid smoking and 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.
• Attend follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule future appointments to evaluate your healing progress and remove stitches (if they were used). Make sure to attend these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.

In most cases, minor swelling and pain will subside after a few days, and most people can resume their normal routine after a week.

FAQs About Gum Contouring in Warson Woods, 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 an appropriate option for you.

Generally, the only times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a significant underlying dental problem, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, or people who have receded gums. Those dental problems are treated differently ensure your mouth is able to stand up to cosmetic procedures.

Making a consultation with a knowledgeable Warson Woods, MO dentist will help you understand if gum contouring is right for you.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Gum Contouring?

No medical procedure is wholly 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, 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 they likely won’t cover it. However, at Plaza Dental Center in Warson Woods, 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 For Gum Contouring to Work?

You’ll see the final results after a few weeks as your mouth adapts. However, you should notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your smile soon 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. You need to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing consistently and going for your annual dental appointments. Limiting smoking and alcohol intake can also help keep your gums in shape.

Call Plaza Dental For Your Gum Contouring in Warson Woods, MO Today

While gum contouring is a relatively simple procedure, it needs to be done by a dentist in Warson Woods, MO who has the experience and expertise to do it well. 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 particularly interested in treating Warson Woods, MO patients who are apprehensive about getting dental work done. If you’re looking to improve your smile with gum contouring in Warson Woods, MO, call Plaza Dental Center today at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment today.