Gum Recontouring – Springfield, MO
Say So Long to Your Gummy Smile
When it comes to aesthetics, your gums should be a subtle frame for your teeth; they should not call a lot of attention to themselves. But what if you have a “gummy smile,” that is, you have more than a few millimeters of gum tissue visible when you smile? Dr. Tolliver and our team are ready to help patients with a procedure known as gum recontouring. Read on below to learn how this cosmetic service can help you say so long to your gummy smile.
Why Choose Galleria Dental of Springfield for Gum Recontouring?
- Procedure Performed with Advanced Soft Tissue Laser
- Achieve a More Proportionate Smile
- Enjoy Results with the Potential to Last a Lifetime
What Is Gum Recontouring?
The gum recontouring procedure can properly be referred to by a few different names, such as gum contouring or a gingivectomy. Whatever you call it, it is a minimally invasive surgery that trims excess or uneven gum tissue in order to expose more of the dentition underneath. The result is a more even, more subtle gumline that highlights the beauty of your teeth.
Should I Consider Gum Recontouring?
Gum recontouring can be an excellent choice for many patients. It may be suitable for you if you have:
- Overgrown or uneven gum tissue. Genetics may have bestowed you with gum tissue that covers a significant portion of your teeth, making them appear short and stubby. You may also find that you frequently get debris caught in your gums. Gum recontouring can address such issues.
- Periodontal disease. Gum recontouring is largely considered to be a cosmetic procedure. In some cases, though, it is essential for oral health. It can be used to remove diseased gum tissue so your mouth has the opportunity to recover from a severe infection.
- The need for a crown. Extra gum tissue can make it difficult to place crowns and other restorations, such as veneers.
What Is the Process?
The process for gum recontouring is fairly straightforward. First, we numb the mouth with local anesthesia. Then, Dr. Tolliver uses a soft tissue laser to trim the gum tissue. Because the laser cauterizes as it works, you can expect very little bleeding, though a degree of postoperative soreness is to be expected.
Gum recontouring may require one or more appointments; it depends on the extent of your procedure. During your consultation, we will be able to give you a realistic preview of your treatment process.
Is Crown Lengthening the Same as Gum Recontouring?
It depends on whom you ask. Some professionals use the two terms interchangeably, though they may be more likely to refer to it as crown lengthening when its purpose is to make room on a tooth for a restoration.
In other cases, crown lengthening may be viewed differently from gum recontouring. It may refer to a procedure wherein both the gums and the underlying jawbone are modified, whereas gum recontouring is exclusively for gum tissue.