What Is Gum Contouring

How Long Will Gum Contouring Results Last?

For people with uneven gums that are either too high or too low on the teeth, gum contouring is a procedure that can be used to reshape a patient’s gumline. In general, the operation is quick to accomplish and does not require an extensive recovery period. While this surgery can help prevent oral health problems that often accompany gum recession, it is primarily used for cosmetic purposes. Before pursuing this treatment, it helps to know what you can expect for the results, including how long you can expect to maintain the new smile.

How does gum contouring enhance someone’s smile?

While people often assume that crooked, misaligned, or stained teeth are to blame for aesthetic issues with a person’s smile, the gums also have a role to play in helping individuals achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Where the gumline rests can make a person’s teeth appear too large or too small. Surgically contouring the gums can help address situations where a person has experienced gum recession or excessive growth.

Recessed gums

A receding gumline is a common issue that can be caused by genetics but often results from harsh brushing or severe periodontal disease. Sometimes, the gums are so high on the mouth that the roots of the teeth become exposed, leaving the mouth more susceptible to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Additionally, this condition can cause the teeth to appear elongated. By adding donor tissue or grafting material from elsewhere in the mouth, the surgeon can lengthen the gums and better cover the top of the teeth.

Gummy smile

Alternatively, a person may have gums that extend too far over the teeth, causing the teeth to look small in comparison. This problem can result from using some medications or drugs or from bacterial infection. Others may have a naturally gummy smile or permanent teeth that have not completely erupted. Gum contouring in this situation involves using a laser or scalpel to remove part of the gums until they appear more even and attractive.

Are the results of gum contouring permanent?

For many patients, the results of the gum contouring procedure are permanent and do not need to be repeated. Typically, gums do not grow back after being shaped. Maintaining and cleaning the teeth regularly can help prevent further irritation or recession from occurring. In some situations, the patient may need additional treatment to achieve the desired result. It often takes a couple of weeks for the gums to fully heal, but once the recovery process is over, patients can often continue eating without restrictions.

Conclusion

Living with a receding gumline or excessive gum growth over the teeth can make an individual uncomfortable with their smile and can even increase the chance of developing tooth decay or periodontal disease. Fortunately, gum contouring offers a quick, relatively painless solution to these common issues. By making sure to properly care for the teeth and gums following the procedure, most patients can enjoy the results permanently without requiring any follow-up care or repeated surgery.

Are you considering gum contouring in the Columbus area? Get more information at https://www.ohiocosmeticdentists.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Is Invisalign For Teens An Alternative To Braces?

Invisalign® for Teens is a viable option for some dental patients but not all. Your child's dentist will consider certain factors, such as how crooked the child's teeth are. If your teenager is a candidate for Invisalign, you can weigh the pros and cons of aligners and traditional braces to decide which works with your…

Finding The Right Dentist Near Me: What To Look For In Quality Dental Care

Many people start their search for a local dentist by typing "find a dentist near me" into the search box of their internet browser. However, finding a local dentist who provides high-quality care, feels comfortable, and meets your or your family's dental needs starts with knowing what to look for. Understanding the key features of…

Invisalign Can Straighten A Teen’s Teeth

A popular way to straighten teeth without traditional braces is Invisalign®. Clear aligners are available for both adults and teenagers who are interested in improving the alignment of their teeth and improving the appearance of their smiles. The aligners are not visible in the mouth and do not have metal components that can irritate sensitive…

Implant Overdentures From An Implant Dentist

Considering overdentures? Read on to learn more about this tooth-replacement solution from an implant dentist. Implant overdentures are a great way to replace a section or an entire row of missing teeth. Implant dentists may recommend overdentures for patients who want a permanent and long-term solution to teeth replacement and are capable of going through…

Dr. Sam Latif

Share
Published by
Dr. Sam Latif

Recent Posts

Is Invisalign for Teens an Alternative to Braces?

Invisalign® for Teens is a viable option for some dental patients but not all. Your…

5 days ago

Finding the Right Dentist Near Me: What to Look for in Quality Dental Care

A dentist with a convenient location makes it easier to attend regular dental check-ups and…

6 days ago

Invisalign Can Straighten a Teen’s Teeth

A popular way to straighten teeth without traditional braces is Invisalign®. Clear aligners are available…

1 week ago

Implant Overdentures from an Implant Dentist

Implant overdentures are a great way to replace a section or an entire row of…

1 week ago

How Invisalign Can Straighten a Teenager’s Teeth

If your teen needs teeth straightening, Invisalign® Teen is one potential option you can choose.…

2 weeks ago

Why You Should Consider Invisalign for Teens

If your son or daughter is concerned about crooked teeth or a bad bite, you…

2 weeks ago