Gum contouring is a procedure commonly performed for patients who have an uneven smile and/or a gummy smile. Gum contouring can also be performed to address, correct and/or prevent periodontal disease from developing.

A gummy smile is characterized by an excess of gum tissue that creates an imbalanced ratio of teeth to gum, which some patients find unaesthetically pleasing. Gummy smile can occur for several reasons, such as genetic predisposition, lip elevator muscle hyperfunction, excessive maxilla bone growth, maxillary anterior teeth over-eruption, or delayed passive eruption. Certain medications can also cause patients to develop a gummy smile, the most common being blood pressure medications.

Gum contouring is a safe and effective method for correcting this issue and can quickly restore patients back to a balanced, healthy smile that they can feel confident in.

What is Involved in the Gum Contouring Procedure?

Gum contouring can be performed using either a scalpel or laser. Both are effective treatment options, but laser treatment is increasing in popularity because this approach typically reduces the level of discomfort experienced during the procedure and decreases the recovery time and discomfort following the procedure.

Before beginning the gum contouring procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic, and if necessary, dental sedation which will minimize or eliminate any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Once you are comfortable and sufficiently numbed, your periodontist will begin removing gum tissue (either with a scalpel or laser) until they create an even ratio of teeth to gum throughout your smile line. Once the appropriate amount of tissue has been removed, a final analysis will be performed and any final adjustments will be made. Once your periodontist is satisfied with the results, the procedure will be complete.

What is the Recovery Process Like?

One of the biggest benefits to gum contouring is that the procedure is relatively fast and recovery time is minimal. Patients typically experience mild swelling and discomfort following the procedure, but this typically goes away after a few days and can be managed using ice packs and over-the-counter pain relieving medication, such as Ibuprofen.

One of the most effective ways you can reduce pain and speed up your recovery process following gum contouring is to rest and avoid strenuous activity, especially for the first two or three days following the procedure. Engaging in strenuous physical activity can result in too much blood flow, which can cause bleeding, swelling, and increased discomfort. This can also result in a longer healing time.

 Another step you can take to speed up the recovery process and avoid experiencing sensitivity or discomfort is to modify your diet. Avoid eating crunchy or hard foods and stick to a soft food diet until the pain and sensitivity has diminished or gone away. Crunchy or hard foods can irritate the gum tissue, which can prolong the recovery process.

If you follow these aftercare instructions, any pain you experience following the gum contouring procedure should diminish within a few days and be gone completely within a few weeks once the gums have fully healed.

Gum Contouring Information : Is Gum Contouring Right For You?