Have you ever cringed in the mirror because you felt your smile looked too ‘horsey’? Are prominent gums keeping you from smiling freely and with confidence? You aren’t alone, and there’s help for patients like you. A cosmetic treatment known as gum shaping, or contouring, is available to help perfect your smile. Changing the shape of your gum line can help reveal more teeth and give you a smile that you can be proud of. This change is accomplished by removing the excess gum tissue that is hiding your beautiful teeth. Elimination of excess gum tissue can give the appearance of longer teeth and more natural-appearing gums.
How Gum Contouring Can Craft The Perfect Smile
Over the past few decades, gum contouring has come a long way. In the beginning, this procedure relied on scalpels and stitches to reduce the visible gum line. While this process is still used, more modern treatments are available. These come in the form of a specialized laser that eliminates the unwanted gum tissue while cauterizing the wound. This procedure brings minor discomfort and tends to heal more rapidly.
Gum contouring is the term used when a laser is involved in the reshaping of your gumline. Gum shaping, on the other hand, tends to refer to the older technique using a scalpel. You may find that your dentist uses these two terms interchangeably. Whichever process is used, the end result remains unchanged. A beautiful, balanced smile without excess gum tissue.
After the procedure, it will be essential to know the guidelines for your recovery. If a scalpel was used in the procedure, you’d need to be extra careful with your gums until your follow-up visit. On the other hand, if a laser scalpel was used, you’ll have to avoid foods with sharp edges for a few days. Yogurt, pudding, ice cream, and soups are all excellent options in this case. In all cases, you will experience some tenderness and swelling after the procedure. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen are often enough to manage these symptoms.
If an infection is identified or becomes a concern during your follow-up, antibiotics may be prescribed. These should be taken as prescribed and continued until the bottle is completed.
Before you leave their office the day of the procedure, your dentist will speak to you. They’ll give you instructions on the correct dental hygiene practices to follow during your recovery. Should you be told that you can continue brushing, be sure to do so using soft bristles. Hard or medium bristle toothbrushes can reopen the treatment site requiring an additional visit.
Consult Your Dentist For The Best Recovery Results
Are you ready to finally be able to smile with confidence? Speak to your dental health professional today. With their guidance, you’ll know if this procedure will work to address your concerns. The majority of dental patients will be able to benefit from this treatment. In some cases, your dentist may advise you that addressing current oral health concerns will be necessary first. Reach out to them today to learn more!
