Gums contouring, also known as gum reshaping or gum lifting, is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue or reshaping the gums to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about this procedure, including its benefits, risks, cost, and recovery process.

What is Gums Contouring?

Gums contouring is a dental procedure that involves removing or reshaping the gum tissue to improve the appearance of the teeth. This procedure is typically done on patients who have what is commonly known as a “gummy smile.” A gummy smile is when a patient’s teeth appear short because too much of the gum tissue is showing when they smile.

Who Needs Gums Contouring?

People who are self-conscious about their gummy smile may opt for gums contouring. In some cases, gum contouring is also done for oral health reasons. For example, if the gum tissue is covering too much of a tooth, it can make it difficult to clean the tooth properly, which can lead to gum disease.

How is Gums Contouring Done?

Before the procedure, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the gums. Then, they will use a scalpel or laser to remove excess gum tissue or reshape the gums. The entire procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of the work.

Recovery Process

After the procedure, the patient may experience some discomfort and swelling for a few days. The dentist may prescribe pain medication to help manage any pain. The patient will need to avoid hard or crunchy foods for several days and brush their teeth gently to avoid irritating the gums. The recovery time varies from person to person, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.

Benefits of Gums Contouring

Gums contouring can provide many benefits, including:

• Improving the appearance of the teeth
• Reducing the risk of gum disease
• Improving oral hygiene
• Increasing self-confidence

Risks of Gums Contouring

Like any surgical procedure, gums contouring comes with some risks. These risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Tooth sensitivity
• Uneven gum line

Cost of Gums Contouring

The cost of gums contouring varies depending on the extent of the work needed and the location of the dental practice. On average, the cost of gums contouring in the United States ranges from $500 to $3,000 per tooth.

FAQs

1. How long does gums contouring last? Gums contouring is a permanent procedure, and the results can last for many years. However, the gum tissue can grow back, which can affect the appearance of the teeth.
2. Is gums contouring painful? Patients may experience some discomfort during the procedure and a few days after, but the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the gums and may prescribe pain medication to manage any pain.
3. Is gums contouring covered by insurance? In most cases, gums contouring is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance.
4. Can gums contouring be done on all teeth? Gums contouring can be done on most teeth, but the dentist will need to evaluate each case to determine the best approach.
5. How long does the recovery process take? The recovery process varies from person to person, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.

In conclusion, gums contouring is a safe and effective procedure that can improve the appearance of a patient’s smile and reduce the risk of gum disease