A receding gum lift is sometimes called gum contouring surgery or gum reshaping. This procedure is used to restore a person’s gumline to normal coverage of the tooth for both medical and cosmetic reasons.
Anyone who has lost normal, proper gumline coverage of one or several teeth should consult with a dental professional about a receding gum lift. Receding gums can expose the root of a tooth, leading to damage and even possible loss. Receding gums are also commonly a symptom of periodontal disease and should be examined by a qualified dental health care provider to rule out other oral health concerns.
Though the primary reason for getting a gum lift procedure is to protect and maintain the proper function of the teeth, a gum lift also provides cosmetic benefits. Receding gums can give a person a prematurely aged or older appearance.
A gum lift procedure is needed if a patient has experienced significant gum recession from one or more teeth. This is to protect the health and proper function of the tooth and guard against further gum recession. Sometimes, gum grafts are necessary to restore the proper coverage of the teeth by the gumline.
This procedure would be performed in the fully-equipped office of a dentist or oral surgeon. Local anesthetic would be applied to numb the area to be treated. A variety of tools might be used depending on the technique involved in the gum lift surgery, and sometimes a small section of the tooth root must be ground down for the restored gumline to be able to adhere to it adequately.
After a gum lift procedure, the patient should rest as much as possible and limit their activities. A patient’s mouth will be healing for weeks after surgery, and any activity that could adversely affect the lifted gum tissue or slow down the healing process should be avoided.
Pain or discomfort can be treated by over-the-counter NSAID analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Aspirin should be avoided, as it thins the blood.
During the three to five days following surgery, patients should avoid foods high in acid content or heavily seasoned foods, as these could irritate and inflame the healing gumline and slow the healing process.
Patients should also follow restricted diets during this period. Only soft foods that can easily be chewed and swallowed without placing pressure or strain on any treated teeth should be eaten until the gums have healed completely.
Anyone who thinks they may have receding gum and wants to know more should speak with a qualified dental healthcare professional. They will be able to answer any questions about this procedure. To be put in touch with knowledgeable experts who can answer any questions you may have about receding gum lift surgery, simply click the link below!
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