If your gum line creates a negative aesthetic, there are treatment options available to address this. If you have a high, low, or uneven gum line, “gum contouring” – also referred to as gingival sculpting or gingivoplasty – is one of the procedures that can help you improve this part of your smile.
Though this is a dental procedure that is mostly used for aesthetic purposes, it also has certain advantages for your oral health. It generally entails removing extra gum tissue that is making your smile appear uneven or showing too much gum tissue in comparison to the tooth crowns.
Your dentist near you will evaluate your teeth to see if gum contouring and reshaping is an ideal treatment option for you.
When to Consider Gum Contouring?
It is a cosmetic dental surgery, thus the decision to pursue this course of action rests primarily with the patient. After hearing the patient’s precise treatment objectives, dentists might recommend gum contouring. The main purpose of this treatment is to help individuals who are unhappy with the way their smile looks.
You can consider gum contouring if you have:
- Gummy smile
- Uneven gums
- Gums that do not cover enough of your teeth
Gummy smiles are characterized by excessive gum coverage of the tooth crowns. This procedure is often referred to as “crown lengthening” because it helps reveal the crowns and lengthen the appearance of the teeth, which can help patients who feel that their teeth are too short. The best way to figure out if it’s the best course of action for you is to consult with our skilled dentist in Legacy.
When is it Medically Necessary?
There are times when gum and tooth contouring near you is medically required.
This treatment can aid in correcting periodontal disease, gum infection, or inflammation. Your dentist will pursue non-surgical methods to address these issues. It involves dental cleanings to improve gum health or medications to eradicate infection and bacteria. If none of these techniques are successful, your dentist may suggest gum contouring.
Are You Eligible for Gum Reshaping?
Gum reshaping can help you enhance the appearance of your smile and make your facial aesthetics more pleasing. However, you should consider the following factors into account before making your decision:
- Oral health
Make sure your teeth and gums are in good shape. Prior to having this cosmetic dentistry procedure, it is preferable to invest in improving your oral health if you are dealing with gum disease or tooth decay. - Cost
Depending on the area you live in and the amount of work required, dental contouring costs can range from $85 to $400 per tooth. Also, your dental insurance might not cover the treatment if it is solely considered to treat cosmetic concerns. - Cosmetic needs
Treatment is only feasible for issues like teeth that appear larger or smaller due to the gum tissues that cover them. It can’t change the tooth’s position, color, or shape as it requires other dental procedures.
If you’re unsure whether gum contouring is the optimal treatment option for you, consult with our specialists at Walden Dental Wellness. We will assess your teeth and gums and give you the best recommendation for achieving the smile you desire.
Advantages of Gum Contouring
Noted below are just some of the benefits of gum contouring:
- Removes excessive gum tissue
- Enhances the appearance of your smile
- Prevents tooth decay
- Long-term solution
- Straighter and more symmetrical smile
- Reduces the risk of gum disease
Contact us if you are looking for gum and tooth contouring in Walden. We have a team of experts who offer our patients quality dental care services to improve their oral health and the appearance of their smile.
Visit our dental clinic today to get a healthier and brighter smile!