Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy), Sometimes Called a Gum Lift or Gum Grafting
If you have uneven gums or gums that cover a significant portion of your teeth, you might have a gummy smile. Even if your teeth are straight, healthy, and symmetrical, an asymmetrical gum line can diminish the beauty of your smile and make you self-conscious.
Fortunately, a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure called gum contouring can correct this issue. This procedure involves reshaping or removing excess gum tissue using laser technology.
A laser gently removes and seals excess gum tissue without any bleeding, cuts, or incisions. The entire gum lift process is painless and fast. Gum surgery is typically performed on the front teeth. An experienced cosmetic dentist will reshape the gum line to lengthen the teeth, reduce the amount of gum visible when you smile, and create a more symmetrical gumline. This reshaping can make a remarkable difference in your smile.
Caption: Before and After
Some Causes of a Gummy Smile
- Genetics, causing significant gum exposure, such as a long maxillary alveolar bone or short lips
- Hyperactive muscles controlling the upper lip, causing it to rise higher than normal
- Misaligned or protruding teeth
- Periodontitis
Severe cases of a gummy smile can make it difficult for affected individuals to close their mouths completely. Although a gummy smile does not cause medical problems, it can alter the appearance of your smile, making it look uneven. A gum lift through gum surgery can help you smile with confidence.
The Gum Contouring Procedure
Below is a basic outline of how the gum surgery procedure works.
Step 1: Local anaethesia
- Before a gum lift is done, local anesthesia must be applied to the gums in order to numb them.
- The type of sedation you receive for gum surgery may vary depending on factors such as dental anxiety.
Step 2: Laser gum surgery
- Gum surgery involves a laser light that will be focused on areas of excess gum tissue. The laser will reshape the gums by using thermal energy and removing extra tissue while sealing blood vessels at the same time.
Benefits of Gum Lift Surgery
- This gum lift procedure is quick and takes only around twenty to thirty minutes.
- Recovery is immediate since the laser seals the wound as it removes the excess tissue.
- There are no stitches involved, making the procedure painless.
Factors That Can Delay a Gum Contouring Procedure
Despite the ease of the surgery, some factors can delay the procedure. In some cases, patients may have significant bone growth in their mouth. Excess bone growth can interfere with the gum lift procedure, requiring bone re-contouring along with gum surgery. After these operations, veneers may be fitted to give your teeth a brighter, more natural smile.
Post-Operative Care
Although recovery from gum surgery is almost immediate, the gums may feel sensitive for a few days. If there is any pain, painkillers prescribed by your dentist or periodontist can be taken. However, this will not interfere with daily activities such as speaking, eating, or drinking.
To help speed up recovery, follow these guidelines:
- Rinse with warm salt water for relief and quick recovery
- Consume soft and cool foods for a few days, such as pasta, eggs, and cheese
- Avoid extremely hot, cold, or spicy foods, as well as foods with seeds that can get stuck between the gums and cause pain
- Use a soft-bristle brush twice daily post-surgery, as recommended
- Floss gently to avoid irritating the gums
If gum swelling or bleeding occurs, contact your dentist or periodontist immediately.
Cost For Gum Contouring
The cost of gum contouring depends on the condition of the gums and the type of work done. Treating the gum line above just one tooth will cost less than treating the entire gum line or requiring grafts.
The cost can also increase if additional procedures, such as placing porcelain veneers or dental crowns, are performed along with contouring.
You can easily contact us to enquire about gum contouring costs in Melbourne. We can also make an initial appointment, which will assist in allaying an fears and provide an idea of the procedure and time frames.
