Charlotte Gum Contouring
Do you suffer from gum recession?
Our Dentists will improve the appearance of your smile using the latest state-of-the-art laser gum contouring technology to achieve the maximum result with minimum discomfort.
What is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a procedure performed by a dental specialist that reshapes or sculpts the gum line. The process of gum contouring involves cutting away or removing excess gum tissue around your teeth. If you suffer from gum recession, the procedure involves restoring gum tissue.
In many cases, gum contouring is an elective procedure. This means that it is not medically necessary. Instead, it is performed to improve the appearance of the gums, teeth, or smile. However, your dentist may recommend laser gum contouring for oral health reasons.
When do you need Gum Contouring?
Most of the time, gum contouring surgery is done for cosmetic reasons. However, if you have periodontal disease, gum contouring may be a treatment option. Initially, your dentist will try to treat the gum disease with non-surgical options such as antibiotics to kill the bacteria and infection, or dental cleanings to restore gum health.
If these treatments don’t work, your dentist may recommend surgery to reduce the gum pocket and surrounding bone to save a tooth. Or you may need a regeneration procedure to regrow damaged bone and gum tissue.
Gum Contouring’s Procedure and Recovery time
In most cases, you will remain awake during the procedure. First, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the gum area. During the procedure, the doctor will use a soft tissue laser or scalpel to remove excess gum tissue and reshape the gum line to expose more of the tooth.
If your gums have receded, your dentist will remove tissue from another part of your mouth, such as your palate. The surgical procedure will fix this tissue around your teeth to lengthen and reshape your gum line.
Gum line contouring usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, and you can see the results immediately. Because your gums and mouth will likely feel sensitive or tender at first, you should eat only soft foods for about 2 to 3 days after the procedure.