Aside from the typical misaligned teeth and stain imperfections, some people face issues with their gums. A “gummy smile” is defined by gum tissue that extends further on the tooth than it should. Gummy smiles are more common than you may realize, and they can cause individuals much embarrassment and a lack of confidence when speaking and smiling.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Possible causes of extended gums include genetics, bone deterioration, periodontal disease or the use of certain blood pressure medications. For others, the gum line moves upwards with the momentum of new teeth as they grow. The shape of someone’s mouth can also determine excess gum visibility. Constricted passageways in the nose that lead to mouth breathing can cause the gums to dry out and overgrow.
What is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that balances your gum-to-tooth ratio. There are various forms of gum contouring, including laser contouring and crown lengthening.
When using the diode laser, gum contouring is a straightforward procedure that can be completed in one hour or less. Here is the treatment breakdown:
- Your dentist will numb your mouth to prevent discomfort;
- A diode laser will be used to cut off any excessive gum tissue;
- Results are immediate!
If you’re concerned about having your gums cut by a laser, you can rest easy. The laser cauterizes the gums as it works its way through, so you are not likely to get an infection.
For more complex gum work, a surgery called crown lengthening is conducted. During this surgery, a periodontist will remove unwanted gum tissue, then adjust the bone to expose more of the tooth. This surgery is usually applied to several teeth to ensure alignment consistency.
How Do I Know if I Need Gum Contouring?
People experiencing many different symptoms can benefit from the gum contouring procedure. Review the following conditions to see if you are an ideal candidate.
- Gummy smile
- Receding gum tissue
- Small teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Overhanging gums
Gum Contouring at All Smiles Dental
Not all dentists implement the same approach to gum contouring. At All Smiles Dental, we utilize a laser to remove excess gum tissue. We find that this technique reduces the amount of bleeding and swelling that is more profuse with other methods. It also ensures quicker recovery times for the patient. Most importantly, the procedure is completely painless.
The cost of gum contouring can vary depending on the amount of reshaping that is required. In New York, it may range from $300 for one tooth to $3,000 for complex grafting. Make sure to contact our All Smiles Dental Office team for more information about gum contouring and financing. We’d be happy to assist you with setting a consultation appointment to discuss whether or not you’re a good candidate for this procedure.
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