GUM CONTOURING

Your gum line is like your fingerprint – unique to you. But if you’re not happy with yours, there are ways to change it.

Gum contouring, also known as gingival sculpting or gingivoplasty, can help reshape your gum line. In some cases, your dentist may suggest it, especially if you have issues with your gums that affect your oral health.

What is Gum Contouring?

A bright, healthy smile can be yours with gum contouring.

Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure that involves reshaping the gum line. It is often done to improve the look of the gums, teeth, or smile.The process of gum contouring involves cutting away or removing excess gum tissue around your teeth. If you have gum recession, the procedure involves restoring gum tissue.

In many cases, gum contouring is an elective procedure. This means that it isn’t medically necessary. Instead, it’s done to improve the look of the gums, teeth, or smile. But there may be times when your dentist recommends gum contouring for oral health reasons.

When is it medically necessary?

Although gum contouring is most often done for cosmetic reasons, there are occasions when it becomes a medical necessity. If, for instance, you suffer from periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend gum contouring as a treatment option. This could be in addition to other nonsurgical options such as antibiotics or dental cleanings, or it could be part of a more involved surgical procedure, like pocket reduction surgery on the gums and surrounding bone.

What does Gum Contouring involve?

Gum contouring is usually done by a periodontist or cosmetic dentist and is an in-office procedure that is typically done in one visit. In most cases, patients remain awake during the procedure and local anesthesia is used to numb the gum area.

During the procedure, the doctor will use a soft tissue laser or scalpel to remove excess gum tissue and resculpt the gumline to expose more of the tooth. Sutures may be used to hold the gum tissue in place. If your gums recede and the procedure involves adding gum tissue, your doctor will remove tissue from another part of your mouth, maybe your palate. Surgery secures this tissue around your teeth to lengthen and restructure your gumline.

The length of the procedure will vary depending on the extent of the contouring and the amount of resculpting that’s needed. Generally, gum contouring takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Does Gum Contouring hurt?

Before getting your gums reshaped or removed, you’ll be given local anesthesia to numb the area. This means you won’t feel any pain during the surgery, but you can expect some soreness and numbness afterwards. How much discomfort you feel will depend on how extensive the surgery was.

Your doctor may prescribe a pain reliever after the surgery, or you can take over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Aspirin is discouraged because it can cause bleeding. You can also reduce pain and swelling by applying an ice pack or cold compress to your mouth for a couple of days after the procedure. Apply the compress for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.

How long is recovery?

If you’re considering getting your gum contouring done, here’s what you need to know about the healing process. While there is little to no downtime, it can take a few weeks for your gums to completely heal. You may have to limit some activities based on your level of discomfort.

Soft foods are your friend for the first few days after the surgery. Think soup, yogurt, applesauce, and Jell-O. Your doctor will also let you know if there are any foods to avoid while you’re recovering.

You’ll have a follow-up appointment a few days or a week after the procedure. Your doctor will check your gums for signs of infection. If everything looks okay, great! If not, they may prescribe an antibiotic mouth rinse.

Signs of infection include increased pain and swelling, and discharge from the gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor.