What is gum contouring?
Patients suffering from an uneven gum line, a gummy smile, gum recession, or periodontal disease may benefit from gum contouring. Gum contouring is an outpatient procedure performed by a periodontist or in some cases, even your general dentist. Depending on the extent of treatment, gum contouring can be completed in one visit in 15 minutes to an hour.
Gum Recession
Gum recession is often a result of periodontal disease where plaque and bacteria build up in the gum pockets between the tooth surface and gum tissue, causing the gum tissue to pull away from the surface of the tooth, exposing root structure. When the root surface becomes exposed, it leads to root sensitivity, jaw bone deterioration, and eventually tooth loss. Gum recession can also be the result of certain medications or simply genetics.
Gummy Smile
A gummy smile is a condition in which the patient has more gum tissue than usual extending over the tooth surface giving the appearance of small teeth. A gummy smile can be caused by genetics or even certain medications.
How is gum contouring done?
A topical numbing agent has applied to the area being treated and then a local anesthetic is administered through an injection in the gum tissue. After the area is numb, your dentist or periodontist will use a soft tissue laser that will remove excess gum tissue or reshape uneven tissue while simultaneously cauterizing the area to control bleeding. Reshaping gum tissue is also done in the case of periodontal disease to eradicate infection and plaque buildup in the gum pockets so that the gum tissue can heal closer to the surface of the tooth.
Gum contouring is also used in conjunction with some dental restorations. If a tooth is too short to hold a crown or bridge, gum contouring can be done to expose more tooth structure. This procedure is called crown lengthening.
Post Surgery Care
After you have gum Contouring surgery, your doctor will provide you with a detailed list of postoperative care instructions. Following these instructions and allowing your body to rest will ensure proper and speedy healing. Your instruction list will include directions for pain management, oral hygiene, and dietary restrictions.
Pain management: It is normal and expected to experience some level of swelling and tenderness after gum contouring surgery. Most patients are able to manage their pain with over-the-counter pain medications such as Advil or ibuprofen. Medications that contain aspirin should be avoided as aspirin promotes bleeding.
Oral hygiene: A few changes will need to be made to your oral care routine while you heal. It is important to continue brushing and flossing as usual but be sure to take extreme caution at your surgery site. Sometimes, using a Q-tip to clean the area can be easier and less likely to cause damage. Also consider using a warm salt water solution to clean your mouth, especially after eating. The warm salt water will also help soothe the area and keep it clear of debris.
Dietary restrictions: Immediately following surgery, it is important to stick to a liquid diet. After a day or two, you can begin to incorporate soft foods such as eggs, pasta, soft fruits, and softer cooked vegetables. You will want to take care to avoid crunchy or spicy foods or foods that are acidic and or that contain small seeds that could become trapped in your surgery site. Carbonated, acidic, and alcoholic beverages should also be omitted for at least a week.