It’s no surprise that a beautiful, healthy smile can do wonders for someone’s self-esteem. When you have a set of teeth that you’re proud of, it can boost your confidence significantly because you’re not afraid to show it off. Well, gum recontouring is one cosmetic service that can transform your grin into one you’ll love. Before moving forward with it, you may be wondering if the procedure is safe. Read on to learn more about what it is, how it’s done, and why it’s not as daunting as you may think.
What Is Gum Recontouring?
Gum recontouring is a procedure that changes the shape of your gums. The main purpose is to even out an uneven gum line. A dentist will use a scalpel, laser, or radiosurgery to cut away excessive gum tissue that’s giving you a “gummy” smile. On the flip side, it can also restore any gum tissue that has receded and is now exposing too much of your teeth. Since gum recontouring is usually not medically necessary, it’s considered a cosmetic service.
The Gum Recontouring Process
During your consultation, your smile will be carefully examined to ensure you’re a good candidate for gum recontouring. In many cases, it’s performed on patients with teeth that look smaller than average due to the extra gum tissue they have.
Some dentists use scalpels and sutures to perform the procedure, while others use soft tissue laser dentistry. Even though both methods are effective, the soft tissue laser has proven to be more comfortable and precise. It cauterizes the tissue throughout the procedure, minimizing pain and bleeding. Since this method is fast and painless, many patients go without sedation or anesthesia.
After your procedure, you may feel mild soreness and sensitivity on your gums. However, it’s usually not significant enough to interrupt your day-to-day routine. Once a few days have passed, you should be able to return to your usual routine with ease!
What Are the Risks of Gum Recontouring?
When performed by a licensed dental professional, gum recontouring is a safe and effective procedure. But like every surgery, there are risks associated with the procedure. Some of those include:
- Allergic reaction to the anesthetic
- Gum swelling
- Gum bleeding
It’s worth noting that gum recontouring is not a viable procedure for everyone. That’s why it’s incredibly important to consult with your dentist in Arlington and learn about the potential risks to your smile. With their help, you can determine whether or not this treatment is right for you!
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we use the latest technologies, techniques, and materials to ensure you receive the quality care you deserve. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of. If you have any questions about the risks of gum recontouring, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always more than happy to address your concerns. You can make an appointment via our website or call (847) 577-7171.