Have you ever heard of a “gummy smile”? That is the term used to describe people who have gums that rest too low on the front teeth. For these circumstances, as well as several other gum-related issues, Boerne orthodontist Dr. Katie Vo is pleased to provide her patients with gum contouring treatments.
Gum contouring, also known as gingival sculpting, is a cosmetic dental procedure that reshapes the gum line. This can be done to reduce the amount of gum tissue that shows when you smile, as in the case of a “gummy smile”, or to even out an asymmetrical gum line. It can also be used to correct gum recession or to reshape the gums after a gum grafting procedure. During the procedure, Dr. Vo will use a laser to carefully and precisely reshape the gum line, removing excess tissue and reshaping the area to the desired shape. The procedure is usually quick and painless, and no stitches are required as the laser seals the area closed as it works. After the procedure, most patients experience minimal to no discomfort and can resume their normal activities the same day.
– Dr. Katie Vo
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The Most Common Reason for Gum Contouring: Uneven Gums
Uneven gums can result in a gummy smile. But uneven gums may also mean that the gum line rests too high on the tooth surface, which makes teeth appear too long. There are a variety of reasons why people might experience uneven gums, including genetics, other health issues, certain medications, or – in the case of gums that are too high – receding gums. If your gums are too high, it can increase your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. Fortunately, whether you have gums that are too low or too high, gum contouring can resolve the problem.
What Is Involved in Gum Contouring
At our office located in Boerne, TX, Dr. Vo performs a procedure known as gum contouring to help patients achieve a more beautiful smile and improve their overall oral health. This procedure involves using a laser to re-contour the shape of the gum tissue, which can improve the appearance of uneven or excessive gum tissue.
During the procedure, the laser gently removes excess gum tissue while also sealing the tissue to prevent bleeding and promote faster healing. This process is minimally invasive and typically causes little discomfort for the patient.
One of the most significant benefits of gum contouring is its ability to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. By reshaping the gum tissue, it becomes easier to keep teeth clean, reducing the chance of plaque and bacteria build-up that can cause decay and disease.
Ultimately, the result of gum contouring is a beautiful, natural-looking smile that can boost your self-confidence and improve your oral health. If you’re interested in exploring gum contouring as an option, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vo to discuss your needs and explore your options.
Recovering from Gum Contouring Surgery
Following your gum contouring procedure with Dr. Vo, it’s essential to take proper care of your gums to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. Dr. Vo will recommend that you practice a very gentle oral hygiene routine at home until your gums have fully healed.
This means that you should avoid brushing and flossing too vigorously to prevent irritating the healing gum tissue. Instead, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently and carefully around the gum line. Flossing should also be done gently, using a soft, nylon floss to clean between your teeth and avoid disturbing the gum tissue.
It’s also important to avoid using any mouth rinse that contains alcohol, as this can cause stinging and irritation to your healing gums. Instead, Dr. Vo may recommend a gentle saline solution to rinse your mouth after meals.
During the healing process, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent the build-up of bacteria and plaque that can lead to infection. However, it’s equally important to be gentle with your gums to avoid any complications or delays in the healing process.
Dr. Vo will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your gums after the procedure, including what to expect during the healing process and when you can resume normal brushing and flossing habits. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a successful and smooth recovery from your gum contouring procedure.
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