What Is Gum Contouring?
Patients whose gums are too low or too high have smiles that appear uneven, which can result in feelings of self-consciousness and avoiding smiling in public or for photographs. Many people with uneven gum lines are unaware that this issue can be easily treated with a gum contouring procedure. This safe and simple method involves removal of gum tissue using a scalpel or laser until there is an even balance between the gums and teeth.
This procedure can be especially impactful for patients who have a gummy smile, a condition characterized by an excess of gingival tissue, which causes an individual’s teeth to appear smaller than they actually are. A gummy smile may develop for a range of reasons, including genetic predisposition, lip elevator muscle hyperfunction, excessive maxilla bone growth, maxillary anterior teeth over-eruption, and/or delayed passive eruption. While a gummy smile may not be indicative of an underlying condition, it is important that a thorough examination be performed prior to a gum contouring procedure to address any underlying issues that may be present.
In addition to enhancing the cosmetic appearance of one’s smile, gum contouring may also be performed as part of a larger treatment plan for correcting periodontal disease. Trimming tissue that is covering a crown or adding gum tissue to areas where gum recession has occurred are both examples of non-cosmetic gum contouring. Gum contouring may also be performed as part of a crown lengthening or pocket reduction procedure.
Steps Involved in the Gum Contouring Procedure
The gum contouring procedure will begin with an initial evaluation, during which your periodontist will examine your gums and teeth and look for any indications of underlying conditions. If you are having a gum contouring procedure for cosmetic purposes, it is important to share your specific treatment goals during this appointment. If it is determined that you are a good candidate for gum contouring, a follow up appointment will be scheduled.
At your next appointment, a local anesthetic and/or dental sedation may be administered to ensure you do not experience any discomfort while the procedure is performed. Next, a line is drawn on your gums that will match your desired appearance. Once you are comfortable, your periodontist will begin removing the gingiva using either a scalpel, laser, or combination of both. Once this tissue has been removed, your periodontist will perform a final inspection and make any necessary adjustments, after which the gum contouring procedure will be complete.
Recovery Process
While it is unlikely that you will experience any discomfort during the gum contouring procedure, once the anesthetic has worn off you may begin to feel some tenderness and pain where the procedure was performed. To reduce discomfort and speed up your recovery process, be sure to rest for a few days following your appointment. It is also recommended that you stick to a soft-food diet for the first few days following your procedure to help reduce discomfort or pain and prevent irritation to the gums, which can slow the healing process down. While brushing your teeth and gums, be gentle and use a soft bristle toothbrush when going over the area where the gum contouring has occurred. If you follow these aftercare instructions closely, you should complete the healing process within 7-10 days.