Tired Of That Gummy Smile? Check Out Gum Contouring
Posted on: 27 March 2016
Have you heard about a little-known cosmetic dental procedure called gum contouring? It helps people who are not confident about the appearance of their gums feel better about their smiles. The following article takes a closer look at this intriguing concept.
Why It's Done
Gum contouring, also know as gum reshaping, is done to change the shape of your gum line. If your gums are either too high on your teeth or too low, your smile can become less appealing. Typically, the procedure is not medically necessary and is for the sake of your appearance. In some cases, however, gum contouring might be performed in combination with a procedure that is medically indicated, such as reducing pockets of bacteria that have formed in your gums.
How It's Done
The procedure for gum contouring can vary depending on whether gum tissue is being added or removed from the affected area. If you have too much gum tissue in a given area of your mouth and want some of it removed, then the dentist will probably use a laser tool or a scalpel to eliminate the excess tissue. A more recent innovation uses an electric current to reshape the gums.
If you need tissue added to your gum, then the dentist will take some tissue from a part of your mouth away from a hidden area, such as the palate, and then graft it to the spot that is lacking sufficient tissue.
How Long It Takes
Gum contouring is minor surgery that can be done at your dentist's office. Typically only one visit is required. You will usually only need to have a local anesthetic. You will experience some soreness in your gums after the procedure is completed, but this is to be expected and is not a cause for concern.
The recovery process from gum contouring generally takes a few days to a few weeks. Any pain should be treated with a non-aspirin pain reliever. Also, eat only softer foods, such as pasta, eggs and yogurt, during the days immediately after the procedure. Do not eat any spicy foods until after your mouth is completely healed. Stay away from any foods that contain seeds as well.
Gum contouring can help you regain the confidence you need to smile more often is you are feeling self-conscious about your gums. For more information about this interesting and helpful dental procured, make an appointment with your cosmetic dentist for a consultation.
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