Too much or too little gum around your teeth can have a big impact on your smile. If you’re dealing with problematic gums like these, gum contouring and grafting is an option that patients often turn to give them a beautiful smile.
Here are some frequently asked questions about this procedure:
What causes uneven gums? Genetics, certain health problems or taking certain prescription drugs can cause your gums to cover a large part of your teeth and make them look small in proportion to your smile and face. For gums that are too high, it could be a sign of periodontal disease, which is the deterioration of the supporting structures of your teeth.
What is cosmetic gum contouring? Also known as excessive gingival display, gums that come down too far can be treated with gum contouring. During this procedure, a Diode laser cauterizes the gum as it removes it. It’s virtually painless procedure with very little bleeding and a short healing period.
What is gum grafting? Gum grafting procedures are done on gums that don’t come down far enough, which is also known as gum recession. Recessed gums not only affect the appearance of your smile, but they also lead to more tooth sensitivity. When the gum tissue pulls back from teeth, it exposes the tooth’s root and can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss. During this procedure, gum tissue is taken from your palate or another donor source to add more tissue to the affected area.
Why would I need to get one of these procedures done? Not only will gum contouring and grafting procedures give you a more uniform, radiant smile, but they will help reduce your risk of gingivitis and reduce tooth sensitivity.
Who is a good candidate for these procedures? If you suffer from either too much or too little gum tissue, you can benefit from one of the applicable procedures.
What is recovery like? It will take a few days or weeks for your gums to heal completely depending on the extent of your procedure. You’ll have specific directions to aid in your recovery, and you can ease any pain with over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil. East soft, cool foods for the first few days, avoiding spicy foods and any food with seeds until your gums have healed.
If you are dealing with gums that are too high or too low, call (501) 843-9561 to schedule a consultation to see which gum treatment would be best for you.
