What is Gum Contouring: Procedure, Cost, Advantages & Aftercare Tips

What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring goes by several names, such as gingivoplasty and gingival sculpting. The procedure is relatively new to some people and entails the reshaping and resculpting of the gum line. During gum contouring in Boynton Beach, FL, 33426, your dentist will cut and remove excess gum tissue surrounding your teeth. If you have receding gums, the same procedure will be used to regenerate gum tissue so it covers the exposed tooth roots and make your smile more attractive.

Although the procedure has restorative benefits, it’s usually considered an elective procedure meaning it’s not necessary and is often done for cosmetic purposes.

Why You May Need Gum Contouring Treatment?

As we had said earlier, gum contouring is usually done for cosmetic purposes. However, your dentist may sometimes recommend it to improve your oral health. For example, gum contouring may be a treatment option for patients suffering from periodontal disease. Your dentist will typically attempt to treat your gums nonsurgically via other gum restoration procedures. This may include dental cleaning and the use of antibiotics to kill bacteria and stop the spread of infection. Below are reasons why you may need to undergo gum contouring:

• The patient has a gummy smile
• A patient having receding gums
• Having an uneven gum line

The term “gummy smile” refers to a situation where the patient has a gum line extending to their teeth’ crowns. This gives the illusion that the patient’s teeth are too short and thus makes their smile unattractive.

What is the Procedure for Getting Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is an in-office procedure done by a cosmetic dentist or periodontist. The treatment is usually done for two purposes: correcting cases of excessive gum and receding gums.

Before treatment, your dentist will start by administering local anesthesia to sedate the gum tissue. If the patient has excess gum tissue, the periodontist will use a scalpel or soft tissue layer to remove the extra gums surgically. Once done, they will resculpt the gum line and, in some cases, use sutures to hold the gum tissue in place.

Treatment is different when correcting gum recession. The dentist will remove gum tissue from other parts such as the palate and use it to cover areas affected by gum recession. Our dentist in Boynton Beach, FL 33426, will do the procedure efficiently to ensure the added gum tissue doesn’t come off and looks natural. The procedure takes little time to complete, as it takes about two hours. However, time taken may vary in severe cases where the extent of resculpting and contouring is significant.

What is the Cost of Undergoing Gum Contouring?

There is no standard cost for gum contouring treatment. That being said, a conventional gum contouring procedure may cost anything ranging from $50 to $350 per tooth. The price can be significantly higher when the patient wants the entire front top of teeth contoured. Location, the extent of gum restoration, and the skills and experience of the dentist will also matter and may reduce or increase treatment costs.

It’s also important to add that, in many cases, dental insurance will not cover gum contouring since it is considered an elective procedure performed for cosmetic purposes. However, if recommended by a gum contouring dentist near you for dental reasons, your insurance provider may agree to cover part of the cost.

What are the Benefits of Getting Gum Contouring Treatment?

Here the major advantages for getting gum contouring:

> Removes Excess Gum Tissue

The dentist can remove excess gum tissue extending down the patient’s teeth through gum contouring. Excess gum tissue can block parts of your teeth, making them look dingy. Visiting a gum contour dentist can fix that, as removing the excess gum tissue exposes more parts of the teeth, making them look longer and more appealing.

> Creates an Even Gum line

Some patients suffer from an uneven, jagged gum line. This usually occurs naturally and is not a result of bad oral hygiene, thus not preventable. An uneven gum line can make teeth appear crooked or misaligned, thus affecting the patient’s self-confidence. When you visit our dental clinic, our dentist in 33426 can reshape your gums and fix your smile through gum contouring.

> Provides Permanent Results

You can expect the cosmetic results of gum contouring to last for an extended period. We carry our gum contouring efficiently, so you don’t have to worry about the excessive gum removed during treatment growing back. However, it’s crucial that you follow all the aftercare instructions we’ll provide post-treatment to keep your gums clean and healthy so they don’t get infected with periodontitis.

> It is a Safe Procedure

Like any surgical treatment, gum contouring can pose complications, especially if not done correctly. However, the procedure is ranked among the safest treatments available as there are minimal risks of infections. Before treatment commences, your dentist will examine your mouth to ensure you are not suffering from gum disease or any other dental issue. You should follow all post-treatment instructions to avoid complications during recovery.

What are the Aftercare Tips for Gum Contouring Treatment?

Below are the aftercare instructions for gum contouring:

• Practice good oral health by brushing your teeth regularly
• Don’t use hard bristled toothbrushes, and don’t use too much force when brushing over your gums
• Rinse your mouth regularly using water mixed with salt
• Take all medications as prescribed by your dentist
• Eat soft foods that are not hot or spicy, as they can irritate your gums
• Avoid alcohol-based mouth cleaning products as they can irritate your gums

Get Gum Contouring Treatment Near You

Gum contouring is a dental procedure meant to improve the patient’s smile by correcting gum imperfections. The procedure is safe and doesn’t take much time to complete. At Quantum Dental, we pride ourselves on offering excellent dental treatment, whether for medicinal or cosmetic purposes. Contact our dental clinic today to get gum contouring in Boynton Beach, FL 33426!