Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or sculpting, is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves reshaping the tissue and/or bones of the gumline to improve the appearance of the gums and/or teeth. This can include removing excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth, or building up the gumline to make the teeth appear shorter. The procedure is typically performed using a laser or scalpel, and can be done in a single visit to the dentist.
What is gingival contouring?
Gingival contouring, also known as gingivoplasty or gingival reshaping, is a periodontal (gum) surgical procedure that involves reshaping the gum tissue to improve the appearance of the gums and/or teeth. This can include removing excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth, or building up the gumline to make the teeth appear shorter. This procedure is usually done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment or cosmetic dentistry procedures to enhance the final outcome. The procedure is typically performed using a laser or scalpel, and can be done in a single visit to the dentist.
When is gum shaping medically necessary?
Gum contouring or reshaping is typically considered a cosmetic procedure, however, it can also be done for functional or medical reasons.
Functional reasons:
When the gums are covering too much of the tooth, it can make the teeth appear smaller and cause difficulty in cleaning. In these cases, gum contouring can be done to expose more of the tooth surface, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
Medical reasons:
When the gums are uneven, it can cause asymmetry in the smile and can be corrected through gum contouring.
Gum recession, which is when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, can also be treated with gum contouring by adding tissue to the affected area.
In cases of gummy smiles, where a person has excessive gum tissue and short teeth, gum contouring can be done to reduce the gum tissue to improve the appearance of the smile.
It’s important to note that a dentist or periodontist will evaluate the patient’s situation and determine if gum contouring is the best option and whether it’s medically necessary.
What does gum contouring involve?
Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or sculpting, is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves reshaping the tissue and/or bones of the gumline to improve the appearance of the gums and/or teeth. The procedure typically involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: The patient will be given a local anesthesia to numb the area around the teeth that will be treated.
Reshaping: The dentist will use a laser or scalpel to remove excess gum tissue or reshape the gumline as needed.
Finishing: After the reshaping is done, the dentist will clean the area and may apply a dressing or antibiotic gel to promote healing.
Aftercare: The patient will be given instructions on how to care for their teeth and gums during the healing process, which typically takes a few days to a week. The patient may also be given pain medication to manage any discomfort.
It’s important to note that the procedure may vary depending on the individual case and the extent of reshaping that is needed.
It’s also worth mentioning that in some cases the procedure may be performed by a periodontist, a dental specialist in treating gum and bone issues.
Does gum contouring hurt?
Gum contouring is typically done under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the teeth that will be treated. As a result, most patients do not feel any pain during the procedure. Some patients may experience some discomfort or mild pain during the healing process, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
It’s also important to note that post-operative discomfort or pain can be different for everyone and depend on the extent of the procedure and individual pain tolerance.
After the procedure, your dentist will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions, including information on how to manage any discomfort you may experience. It is crucial to follow these instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and avoid any complications.
In any case, it is important to communicate with your dentist or periodontist in case you have any concerns or issues during the healing process.
How long does it take to heal after gingival contouring?
The healing time after gingival contouring (gum reshaping) can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the individual patient. However, in general, most patients can expect to experience some mild swelling and tenderness for a few days to a week after the procedure.
The gums may also be sensitive to the touch and to hot or cold temperatures during this time. In general, most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days of the procedure, but you should avoid vigorous exercise or other activities that could cause bleeding or irritation of the treated area.
It’s important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or periodontist to ensure proper healing. These instructions may include avoiding certain foods, brushing and flossing gently, and using an antimicrobial rinse to prevent infection.
It’s also worth mentioning that it’s normal for the gums to appear darker or red for a few weeks after the procedure, but this will typically fade as the gums heal.
In any case, it’s important to communicate with your dentist or periodontist if you have any concerns or issues during the healing process.