When To Find Out More About Gum Reshaping

Gum reshaping can be performed for cosmetic reasons, to improve the appearance of your smile, or for medical reasons, such as when your gums have receded due to periodontal disease. Read on to learn more about gum reshaping and to find out if it is right for you

What Is Gum Reshaping?

Gum reshaping, also known as gum contouring, tissue sculpting, or gingivoplasty, is a minor procedure that we perform right here in our office during one visit. First we use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and minimize any discomfort you may feel during the procedure. Then we use a laser to either remove excess gum tissue for patients with a “gummy” smile, even out the gums for patients with an uneven gum line, or graft tissue from another part of the mouth for patients with receding gums. Finally, we contour and seal the gum tissue to create the desired shape and prevent infection. Sutures may be necessary if we are adding tissue to receding gums.

When Is Gum Reshaping Necessary?

Gum reshaping is often a cosmetic procedure that people elect to have if their gums are too low, high, or uneven. Just like having issues with your teeth, having concerns about the appearance of your gums can make you self-conscious about your smile and want to hide it. Gum reshaping and contouring can boost your confidence and give you the smile you always wanted.

Other times, gum reshaping is medically necessary. Patients with gum disease may have receding gums, which can make teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to decay. Gum disease also results in the development of gum pockets, which trap harmful bacteria and accelerate the spread of infection. Combined with other treatments, gum reshaping helps prevent gum disease from getting worse by removing and sealing up gum pockets. We can also graft tissue from your palate to improve the look of receding gums and make your teeth and gums less susceptible to further infection. If you are interested in gum reshaping for either cosmetic or medical reasons, please call our office today.