Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping, is a dental procedure that involves shaping or removing excess gum tissue to create a more even, attractive smile. Whether you have a “gummy” smile or uneven gums, gum contouring can help improve the appearance of your gums and make your smile look more balanced.
Why Would You Need Gum Contouring?
Some people have gums that cover too much of their teeth, which can make their teeth appear short or uneven. This is called a “gummy smile.” Others might have uneven gums, where one side of the gums is higher or lower than the other, affecting the overall look of the smile. Gum contouring can fix these issues by carefully reshaping the gums to give your teeth a more balanced, symmetrical appearance.
In addition to cosmetic reasons, gum contouring can also treat gum disease. If there is extra gum tissue or pockets of infection around the teeth, gum contouring can help remove this tissue and allow the gums to heal properly, making it easier to clean your teeth and keep them healthy.
What Happens During Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is usually a simple, quick procedure that can be done in your dentist’s office. The dentist will first numb the area with a local anesthetic to make sure you’re comfortable. Once the area is numb, the dentist will use a special tool or laser to remove or reshape the gum tissue. In some cases, the dentist might also use a scalpel, but lasers are becoming more common because they are precise and cause less bleeding.
The procedure usually only takes about 30 to 60 minutes. If you’re getting gum contouring for cosmetic reasons, your dentist will aim to make your gums look natural and symmetrical by carefully sculpting the gum tissue to match your smile.
Benefits of Gum Contouring
The main benefit of gum contouring is the improved appearance of your smile. If you have a gummy smile or uneven gums, gum contouring can make your teeth look longer, more symmetrical, and more natural. By reshaping the gums, gum contouring can give your smile a more balanced and attractive look.
In addition to the cosmetic benefits, gum contouring can also improve your oral health. If you have excess gum tissue that makes it difficult to clean your teeth properly, removing this tissue can help prevent gum disease and make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene. Gum contouring can also help treat gum disease by removing infected tissue and allowing your gums to heal.
How We Can Help
At North Shore Periodontics and Implantology, we help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your gums or if you’re dealing with issues like a gummy smile or uneven gum tissue, gum contouring may be a great solution. Our team will work with you to determine the best approach for your needs and help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. If you have any questions or want to learn more about gum contouring, don’t hesitate to contact us.