Most of the time, when people think of cosmetic dentistry, they think only of procedures that can improve the appearance of teeth. The gums aren’t usually considered when it comes to assessing your smile, but they can play a significant role in making your teeth look better overall.
Your gums
Your gums are crucial to the health of your teeth, and your oral health in general. If you feel your gums aren’t making a positive contribution to your beautiful smile, then a visit to your dentist will help. The first thing to rule out is gum disease, or periodontal disease. In that case, surgery is not the answer – improved dental hygiene practices are usually the best solution. A thorough evaluation has to be the first step, and ensuring that your smile is a healthy one before any improvements are attempted.
Gum contouring
Surgery – specifically, gum contouring – is a good choice if your gums rest too low, or too high on your teeth. When the gums sit too high, they cover the teeth, and can make them look quite small. If they have receded, they may even expose part of the tooth root, which can lead to serious problems and even tooth loss. Gum tissue is trimmed, or added, according to the patient’s specific needs.
Why are your gums uneven? There may be a variety of root causes.
• Genetics – it simply runs in your family;
• Using certain prescription medications;
• Gums have receded due to periodontal disease or poor oral hygiene;
• Aging can also play a role.
What to expect
You may also hear the procedure, which may be performed at your dentist’s office, or a periodontist’s clinic. It may be performed as part of a larger reconstructive process, but gum reshaping can also be done as a purely cosmetic procedure to improve the look of your teeth.
• The procedure is generally performed at your dentist’s office;
• A local anaesthetic is used to relieve pain;
• A laser is typically used to recontour the gum tissue.
Recovery time will vary according to the specific procedure, and the area of the mouth in question. In general,
• You can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage pain, but avoid aspirin, which can cause bleeding;
• Eat soft foods at medium to cool temperatures for the first few days;
• Avoid eating very spicy foods, nuts, or seeds until gums have completely healed;
• Ask your dentist how to best brush your teeth while you heal.
Looking for advice on gum contouring, cosmetic dentistry, or any aspect of your dental or oral health? You’ll find the answer at Dr. F. Keshavarz Dentistry in Brampton, ON.
If you’re looking for a well-regarded and highly skilled dentist in the Brampton area, make an appointment with Dr. F. Keshavarz Dentistry by calling (905)-791-3867. Visit our website to learn more about our dental services.
