Five Interesting Facts About Gum Contouring

Gum contouring or reshaping is a procedure done to correct or re-sculpt a gum line. The process usually involves cutting the excess tissue and reattaching the gums back to the teeth in the correct position. Here are a few facts you need to know about gum contouring.

1. It is Not Only Done for Cosmetic Reasons

Gum contouring is classified as a cosmetic dental procedure, because in most cases gum reshaping is done to correct the smile. However, there are times when a dentist in Boynton Beach 33426 can recommend gum reshaping.

When you have severe periodontal disease that has affected your gums and caused them to recede, gum reshaping becomes necessary. Without the procedure, the gum recession will expose the roots, cause the teeth to loosen, and trigger decay.

Gum contouring can also be done as part of your pocket reduction surgery.

2. The Process is Relatively Fast and Pain-Free

Gum reshaping is mostly done by a cosmetic dentist in Boynton Beach, FL, or a periodontist. It is an in-office procedure that is done in one dental visit.

Local anesthesia is usually used, but at times, conscious sedation is added to relax and reduce dental phobia. The dentist will take you through the procedure and what to expect.

Next, using a pen, he will draw a line to mark the gum line to see how much gum needs to be removed. Using a soft tissue scalpel or laser, he will remove the excess gum tissue to expose the teeth and reshape the gum line.

But, if you have receding gums, the dentist may add gum tissue to the affected area to stimulate new tissue growth. The dentist will then reattach the gum to lengthen the gum line.

The length of the procedure will vary based on the extent of reshaping you need, but on average, you need at least one to two hours.

3. It Is Mostly Not Covered by Insurance

If the procedure is done for cosmetic reasons (as is the case in most situations) it will not be covered by dental insurance plans. But, if the dentists recommend the procedure as part of your periodontal disease, then it is a necessary treatment and therefore the insurance may cater for the cost or a percentage of it.

4. Recovery Takes Time

It can take a few weeks for the gums to heal and it is important to follow the dentist’s instructions to prevent any complications and hasten the process. It is vital to take medication as prescribed by the dentist to ease the pain. Also, watch want you to eat, at least in the first 48 hours. Eat mostly soft foods that are easy to chew. Add cold foods into the mix, because cold therapy helps to ease discomfort. Stay away from spicy foods that can irritate the gums.

Do not forget to maintain your standard hygiene practices to keep your mouth clean and free of food particles.

5. A Few Risks May Develop

Yes, just like other surgical procedures, gum reshaping has a few risks. Allergic reaction to anesthesia is the most common, but it is avoidable. Your dentist will do a comprehensive assessment to check if you are allergic to any medication.

Gum relapse is also a common problem. This occurs when the gum tissue grows back or causes dark pigmentation, especially if the problem was caused by the long-term use of certain medications.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are unsatisfied with the gum position, consult our dentist at Quantum Dental for more information on gum contouring and how you can reshape your gums. Our dentist also cater patients residing in Hypoluxo Village, Boynton Beach, Leisureville, Lantana, South Palm Beach, Ocean Ridge, and near by communities. Call us now to book an appointment with our dentist near you.