Gum Contouring Lehi UT | Gum Reshaping American Fork & Highland

Gum Contouring

Gingival Sculpting for a Healthier Gum Line

Gum reshaping is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue and reshaping the gum line. By having an even gum line, you can improve your oral health because the gums will be easier to keep clean. This procedure is also known as gum sculpting or gingival sculpting.

 

If your gums rest too high, too low, or you would like to explore your options for gum reshaping, contact Vero Dental in Lehi, UT, today. Dr. Alex Harris will evaluate your gums and dental health and together, you will decide if gum contouring can help you achieve the healthy smile of your dreams.

Why Do Gums Become Uneven?

Uneven gums can be the result of genetics, health problems, or the use of prescription drugs. Tall gums that cover a large portion of teeth can make the teeth appear tiny, often known as a gummy smile. Gum recession can cause the teeth to look long. This is often a sign of periodontal disease, which involves the deterioration of the gums and bone that surround the teeth.

 

While this procedure is mainly performed for cosmetic purposes, it may be medically necessary when treating cases of periodontal disease. This type of gum reshaping is called crown lengthening or pocket reduction. If gum disease is left untreated, it can result in tooth loss. With proper dental care and oral hygiene, periodontal disease is preventable and you can protect your teeth and gums.

Benefits of Gum Contouring

In addition to evening out the gum line, this cosmetic dental procedure offers many other benefits, including:

  • An even gum line promotes better overall oral health by providing adequate room for you to clean all around your gums and teeth.
  • Visually, the teeth and gums will appear even and uniform throughout the mouth.
  • Trimming excess gum tissue prevents extra food and debris from becoming trapped.
  • Excess gum tissue often causes irritation, which can make it uncomfortable to brush your teeth and chew food. An even gum line can promote more comfortable everyday living.
  • This procedure is completed in a single surgical visit.

The Gum Contouring Process

Prior to performing gingival sculpting, we may take X-rays of your mouth if we have not done so already. We will discuss your options for anesthesia and sedation prior to performing this procedure. Most patients undergo only local anesthesia to numb the area, but you may choose to combine this with another method of sedation.

 

Once the area is numbed with the local anesthetic, Alex Harris, DDS will use a laser or scalpel to trim away excess tissue. He may place sutures if necessary to seal the tissue and hold the gums in position.

 

If you have receding gums and require more tissue, Alex Harris, DDS will remove tissue from another part of your mouth, such as the palate. He will secure this tissue to the areas of the gum line that require more volume, which will heal together as you recover.

 

This procedure typically takes a couple of hours. This varies depending on the extent of surgery and the amount of reshaping necessary. Once we are finished, we will provide you with instructions on how to care for your gums as they heal. If you ever have questions, please contact our office and a member of our team will be happy to help.

Your Destination for a Beautiful Smile

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