Maintaining straight, white, healthy teeth can help you maintain a beautiful smile for life. However, no matter how beautiful the teeth may be, no smile is complete without a frame of healthy, pink gum tissue. Unfortunately, gums that are uneven, asymmetrical, or disproportionate to the teeth can easily distract from the teeth and mar the appearance of the smile. Gum contouring eliminates excess gum tissue and creates a straight, even gum line to create a proportionate and attractive frame for the teeth. For those who are candidates, this procedure can greatly enhance the overall appearance of the smile.
Am I A Candidate?
Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure that is well-suited to patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their smile due to the condition of their gums. Gum contouring can address a number of cosmetic concerns regarding the gum line, including the following:
- Excessive gum tissue that conceals too much of the teeth
- An uneven gum line
As long as patients have good oral health and healthy gums that are free of periodontal disease, they may be ideal candidates for a gum contouring procedure.
Treatment
There are two general techniques that will be considered for a gum contouring procedure. Below is a brief summary of each of those techniques:
Laser Treatment: A dental laser can effectively remove a mild to moderate amount of excess tissue to improve the appearance of the smile. Laser gum treatment is virtually painless and results in minimal bleeding and a very brief recovery.
Scalpel Treatment: In the case of a large amount of excess gum tissue, we may recommend this procedure. We can permanently remove a larger amount of gum tissue to restore proportion and symmetry to the gum line.
Schedule An Appointment
When it comes to a beautiful smile, the appearance of the teeth and gums are equally important. If you have an uneven gum line that is compromising your smile, contact Maple Avenue Family Dentistry at (401) 237-4038.