Woodson Terrace, MO

Gum Contouring in Woodson Terrace, MO

Gum contouring in Woodson Terrace, MO. Have you ever felt anxious about your smile because of excessive or uneven gums? Do you feel like your teeth are too short or that your gums cover most of your teeth? If the answer is yes, gum contouring can help. This cosmetic dental procedure is becoming more and more popular as a way to improve the appearance of one’s smile.

Plaza Dental Center is committed to helping Woodson Terrace, MO residents get the smile they’ve always dreamed of. We especially like working with patients who are anxious 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 feel great about your smile with gum contouring in Woodson Terrace, MO, speak to a team member at Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or contact us online.

What Causes Uneven Gums?

There are a wide range 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, 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 push out
• An incorrect 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 bulge out
• Certain medical conditions, for example leukemia, can cause gingival hyperplasia
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to the gums becoming more sensitive and susceptible to excess growth

Fortunately, having more gum tissue than most doesn’t come with any other health risks. But for those in Woodson Terrace, MO who are looking to be more comfortable with their smile, gum contouring treatment can provide 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 gum tissues that’s bulged over your teeth or reshaping the existing gum line to create a more symmetrical smile. The procedure is frequently done using specialized tools to gently remove the gum tissueuntil the dentist achieves the shape you’re looking for. Gum contouring can be done alongside other cosmetic dental procedures in Woodson Terrace, MO like veneers or teeth whitening to achieve a complete smile makeover.

The Gum Contouring Procedure in Woodson Terrace, MO

Gum contouring is a simple procedure. After discussing your options with your Woodson Terrace, MO dentist, the procedure will follow these steps:

• The dentist will begin by discussing 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 numb the area.
• The dentist will reduce or reshape your gum line with a specialized tool.
• The dentist may apply stitches to temporarily close any incisions.
• Follow-up appointments may be requested to monitor the healing process and ensure that your smile looks like what you were expecting.

After your visit, your Woodson Terrace, MO dentist will tell you how to protect your gums and minimize any uncomfortable side effects.

Tips For a Smooth Gun Contouring Recovery in Woodson Terrace, MO

After your appointment, you need to ensure your mouth heals correctly. Beyond your Woodson Terrace, MO dentists’ instructions, below are some helpful tips:

• Take pain relievers as directed — Gum contouring may cause some discomfort. Your dentist may suggest you take over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication if needed.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods — Directly after your appointment, don’t try to chew on any 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 be gentle around the treated area to prevent irritation. Your dentist may also advise prescription mouthwash to help encourage healing.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol — Smoking and drinking can slow down the healing process and possibly add further complications. You should avoid these substances until your dentist says it’s OK.
• Don’t miss your follow-up appointments — Your dentist will likely schedule future appointments to evaluate your healing progress and remove stitches (if they were used). Don’t miss these appointments as doing so could affect your recovery.

Generally speaking, minor inflammation and pain will go away after a few days, and most people can go back to their normal routine after a week.

FAQs About Gum Contouring in Woodson Terrace, MO

Am I a Good Candidate For Gum Contouring?

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 times it isn’t right for someone is if they have a more serious underlying dental issue, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, or people who have to little gum tissue. Those dental problems are treated differently ensure your mouth is able to stand up to cosmetic procedures.

Making an appointment with a professional Woodson Terrace, 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 wholly without risks, but gum contouring is about as safe as a procedure can get. Beyond standard swelling or bleeding in the following days, gum contouring only has two known 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?

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 Woodson Terrace, MO, we work with our patients to get them the care they need without breaking the bank, for example accepting CareCredit. Contact our office for more information.

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 will notice some change immediately.

How Long Do The Results of Gum Contouring Last?

That depends (at least partly) on you! Properly looking after your teeth and gums and make gum contouring last a lifetime. It is essential 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 Woodson Terrace, MO Today

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