Understanding Gum Contouring From a Dentist in New York, NY

If you have an uneven gum line, you might be curious about gum contouring. Learn what this is from a dentist in New York, NY now.

Most people think of smiles as the most attractive physical quality they notice upon meeting people. Unfortunately, many people (61%) want to change something about their smiles. For example, perhaps you have a gummy smile that's made you feel self-conscious.

Your dentist in New York, NY might recommend gum contouring to help improve the appearance of your smile. What is this dental procedure, exactly, and how can your dentist help?

Read on to find out.

What Is Gum Contouring?

Everyone's gum lines differ, with some appearing uneven, some too low, and others appearing "gummy." If you feel self-conscious about your smile, gum reshaping could help. This cosmetic dental procedure is also called gingivoplasty and gingival sculpting.

Before scheduling a gum contour surgery, make sure to find an experienced dentist in New York, NY. Confirm that they have the necessary training to complete the procedure. Choose a dental specialist that can reshape or resculpt your gum line.

During the procedure, the dentist will cut away or remove excess gum tissue. 

Conditions like gingivitis (gum disease) could cause gum recession over time. If your gum line has receded, your dentist might restore your gum tissue instead.

Usually, gum reshaping is completed by a cosmetic dentist, periodontist, or dentist with specialized training. This is an in-office procedure that's often completed in a single appointment. You'll remain awake during the procedure.

First, your dentist will numb the treatment area using local anesthesia. They'll use a soft tissue laser to remove any excess gum tissue. Then, they'll expose more of the tooth as they reshape the gum line.

To hold your gum tissue in place, your dentist may need to use sutures.

For receding gum lines, dentists remove tissue from another part of the mouth. Then, they'll secure the tissue around a tooth, lengthening your gum line.

How long the procedure takes can vary based on the extent of the contouring you need. Usually, it takes one to two hours.



This is an elective procedure and therefore not medically necessary. Remember, contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure. It's designed to improve the appearance of your smile, teeth, or gums.

Ideal Patients

Schedule a consultation appointment with your dentist in New York, NY if you have uneven or unsightly gums. For example, maybe your teeth appear smaller than they should. You should also consider this procedure if you:

• Have gums covering an uneven amount of teeth
• Received porcelain veneers and want to make improvements
• Had braces removed and feel unhappy with your gum line
• Have areas of gum recession
• Feel self-conscious due to a gummy smile
• Have gum that cover an uneven amount of each tooth
• Notice an asymmetrical appearance when you smile

During your consultation appointment, your dentist will determine if you're an ideal candidate for treatment. If you're not, they could recommend alternative cosmetic dental procedures to improve the appearance of your smile. 

Medically Necessary

While it is a cosmetic dental procedure, gum reshaping could fix issues with your gums that affect your oral health. 

For example, your dentist might recommend the procedure if you have periodontal disease (the advanced stage of gingivitis). Your dentist will try to treat your gingivitis with nonsurgical options first. Antibiotics could kill the infection and bacteria.

They could recommend dental cleanings to improve your gum health, too.

If antibiotics don't work, they might recommend pocket reduction surgery on your gums instead. This surgery can also benefit the surrounding bone to save a tooth.

They might also recommend a regeneration procedure. These procedures involve growing bone and gum tissue that's sustained damage.

In cases when it's medically necessary, your dental insurance might cover the cost (or partial cost) of the procedure. Make sure to speak with your dental insurance provider before scheduling your appointment. They can help you determine what's covered, as well as potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Otherwise, costs can range between $50 and 350 for one tooth. Pricing varies based on your location and your dentist's experience.

Aftercare

Make sure to discuss what to do after the procedure with your dentist.

First, prioritize your oral health. Brush twice a day and floss daily. Brushing and flossing will remove food particles and bacteria from on or between your teeth.

Otherwise, plaque can form, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If gum disease develops, your gum line might recede again. You might need more tissue sculpting as a result. 

When brushing your teeth, use a mouth rinse designed for improving your gum health. Mouthwash can kill bacteria you didn’t brush away. 

Let your dentist know if you experience any sensitivity or pain in the weeks after the procedure. A little sensitivity is normal in the days after your appointment. If symptoms persist, schedule an appointment.

Otherwise, make sure to schedule a cleaning every six months. Routine cleanings can minimize your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist can also spot gum disease while it's in its early stages.



Treating gingivitis before it progresses could minimize the occurrence of gum recession. 

Gum Contouring: Talk to Your Dentist in New York, NY

Don't continue hiding your gummy smile or uneven gums. Instead, talk to your dentist in New York, NY about gum contouring. This cosmetic dental procedure can improve your smile, giving your confidence a boost in confidence.

Determine if tissue sculpting is right for you today.

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