Everyone has different gumlines. Some people have high gums, others have a low gum line, and some gums are uneven. Fortunately, it is possible to reshape your gums in case you feel conscious about them. Dentists use gum contouring, also called gingival sculpting, for this purpose. While it is a procedure of cosmetic dentistry, dentists often recommend it to fix certain oral health issues arising due to mishappen gums.
What is Gum Contouring?
It is a technique that reshapes your gum line and is performed by a dental specialist. It is the technique of reducing or cutting away extra gum tissue around your teeth. The procedure involves repairing gum tissue if you have gum recession.
The Procedure
A periodontist or a cosmetic dentist typically performs the gum contouring procedure. It is a one-visit procedure that takes place in the doctor’s office. Most of the time, you will be awake for the procedure. You will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the gum area before the doctor begins.
The dentist will use a soft tissue laser or a scalpel to remove excess gum tissue and reshape the gum line to reveal more of the tooth during the operation. The tissue may be held in place with sutures. If your gums recede and your doctor needs to add gum tissue, tissue from another part of your mouth, such as your palate, will be removed. To lengthen and remodel your gumline, surgery binds this tissue around your teeth.
The length of the treatment is determined by the extent of the gum contouring and the quantity of sculpting required. The process typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
Recovering from the Surgery
There is no long-term recovery time from the procedure. You will heal completely in days or weeks depending on the extent of the surgery performed. Post-procedure, your dentist will advise you to take certain precautions, including eating soft foods and limiting some other activities. Your dentist will also schedule another appointment for follow-up within a few days or a week to monitor that the gums are healing properly and there is no development of infection.
Since the procedure involves cutting or adding gum tissue, you are likely to feel tenderness in the days following the surgery. However, if you feel increased pain, swelling, or discharge from the gums, you should immediately see your dentist.
Dental Services in Chula Vista
Dr. Nick Addario’s dental clinic offers a wide range of dental services in Chula Vista, including the gum contouring procedure. If you believe you can benefit from a treatment, then our Chula Vista dentist can evaluate you during an initial consultation to determine if it is an ideal treatment for you. Patients will be able to enjoy a comfortable and hygienic ambience, along with the assistance of trained staff.
To learn more about our cosmetic dentistry services in Chula Vista, gum contouring cost and procedure, or book your appointment, please call or visit us today.