When you turn to an orthodontic team for treatment, you are taking a positive step toward achieving the smile of your dreams. But, after getting braces, you may find that your smile still isn’t meeting your expectations. If you have a gummy smile or your teeth appear smaller than you’d like, you may want to consider gum contouring.
This cosmetic dental procedure is a great way to shape your gums, helping you achieve a uniform smile. However, if you’ve never met someone who has gotten this service, you may have many questions about what to expect. If you are considering investing in this service, keep reading to learn more about what it is and what you can expect during your treatment.
1. What is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring, also known as gingival contouring or gum reshaping, is a cosmetic procedure performed by a dentist or orthodontist that reshapes your gum line. Some people have gums that make their teeth appear boxy or shorter than they are, while others have an uneven gum line across their smile. This procedure removes this excess gum tissue, helping orthodontic patients achieve a more uniform smile.
2. Why Would You Need Gum Contouring?
There are a few reasons why an orthodontic patient may choose to get gum contouring. The most common reason patients opt to receive this treatment is because of excess gum tissue they would like to remove to improve the appearance of their smile. However, some patients who are experiencing gum recession may also choose to get their service. If they have gum recession, this treatment helps patients restore gum tissue.
3. Is It Painful?
If you have signed up for this service, you may worry it will be painful. Gingival contouring is typically performed under local anesthesia and shouldn’t be painful. Afterward, you may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. If the pain doesn’t go away after taking pain medications, you should reach out to your orthodontic team to discuss appropriate next steps.
4. How Long Does It Take?
The length of your treatment will vary based on the extent of your gum reshaping needs and whether you need reshaping on your upper, lower, or both gum lines. On average, contouring takes 1 to 2 hours to complete. Smaller adjustments may take less time, while more extensive contouring could require the full duration. Your dentist will provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
5. Are There Risks Involved?
Although gum contouring is generally considered a low-risk procedure, you may encounter a few problems if you don’t follow proper aftercare. Like any other dental procedure, it is necessary to keep your mouth clean following your treatment to avoid infection. You may also experience some swelling and discomfort immediately following your treatment. However, with proper care, you should be able to easily avoid any risks.
6. How Do You Care for Your Gums After the Procedure?
After your gum contouring procedure, it is essential that you follow the instructions provided by your orthodontic team. You should take medication as directed to help alleviate pain and reduce swelling. They also recommend eating soft foods, like eggs, soups, and smoothies. You should also avoid exercise and heavy lifting, as this can increase bleeding, swelling, and pain. Finally, keep the area clean and follow brushing and flossing instructions as you recover.
7. How Long Does the Treatment Last?
When you get gum contouring, you can trust that the results of this procedure will last a lifetime, as the removed gum tissue does not grow back. However, it is important to remember that these results may change if you develop gum recession. As long as you maintain positive oral health, you should be able to maintain the appearance of your smile following your treatment.
8. Does Gum Contouring Improve Oral Health?
Although gum contouring is primarily a cosmetic treatment, it can help some individuals avoid certain oral health issues. This treatment is especially helpful for individuals who have dealt with gum disease in the past. With the removal of excess gum tissue, you can avoid bacteria getting trapped beneath the tissue, which can result in the development of periodontal health problems like gum recession and gingivitis.
9. Should You Get Contouring Before or After Braces?
It’s generally recommended to get gum contouring after braces. Braces can shift your teeth and gum line, so waiting until after orthodontic treatment ensures that your final gum contouring results align with your newly straightened smile. If you have significant gum issues, your orthodontist may suggest contouring during treatment but contouring after braces provides the most accurate and lasting results, perfectly complementing your new tooth alignment.
Helping You Achieve Your Dream Smile
Whether you need gingival contouring, braces, or a combination of orthodontic treatments, it is essential that you work with a reliable orthodontic team. With a dependable team on your side, you can trust that your dream smile is within reach. If you’re looking for an orthodontic team in the Farmington or Bountiful area, turn to our team at Bailey-Welling Orthodontics.
For decades, our expert orthodontic team has provided comprehensive services to patients across the Wasatch Front. From misalignments to overcrowding, gaps, and more, we’re equipped to help you address any orthodontic problems you may experience to help you achieve your perfect smile.
If you believe you may be a good candidate for gingival contouring and you’d like to schedule an appointment or have any questions about the service, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
