Gum Reshaping: Is It Right for You?

What You Should Know About Gum Reshaping

Having a beautiful smile is important, since it can help raise individuals’ self-esteem, improve their confidence, and is beneficial for their mental health. For those who were born with an uneven gum line, it can be more difficult to develop the confidence to smile freely. For those who are feeling insecure about their gum line, there is modern dental technology that can help address the problem. A procedure known as periodontal gum contouring may be the right solution.

When Should Cosmetic Gum Procedures Be Used?

Periodontal gum contouring can help patients with uneven gums or gums that cover too much of their teeth. These conditions can be caused by a number of factors including genetics and using certain medications, and they can result in patients having what is known as a “gummy” smile that makes some or all of their teeth appear smaller than they are. Periodontal gum contouring can also be used for patients who are experiencing a receding gum line, exposing too much of their teeth.

What is Periodontal Gum Contouring?

Periodontal gum contouring is a medical procedure used to help counter tooth loss, decay, gingival infections, or periodontal disease caused specifically by inconsistencies in the gum line. Receding gums leave the teeth more exposed and therefore make them more vulnerable – the pockets that can form between teeth are the ideal place for bacteria to gather and grow. Periodontal gum contouring helps remove these areas and seals the tissue to prevent further issues.

How Does Periodontal Gum Contouring Work?

Periodontal gum contouring can be performed in the majority of offices with qualified periodontists and dental professionals. Patients receive a local anesthetic to help numb the area, and the dentist uses a laser to remove excess gum tissue. This laser is used to not only re-contour the gum line but to also seal the tissue to create the appropriate shape and prevent any additional bleeding. The dentist can also laser the hollows in the gum line to help prevent infections.

What is the Aftercare for Periodontal Gum Contouring?

After the patient’s gums have been reshaped, it is important for him or her to practice good oral hygiene for the several weeks following the procedure. While the gums are healing, brushing the teeth and gums will likely need to be performed gentler to avoid irritation – brushing too hard can cause the gums to bleed and may lead to the development of an infection.

If you have questions about gum shaping procedures, you can always consult with your dentist and sign up for our New Hampshire Individual Discount Dental Plan to save as much as 20 percent on all your dental bills. For more information, please click here. We also offer Employee Discount Dental Plans for business owners offering dental to their employees.

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