Gum Contouring for a More Balanced Smile
Nov 01, 2024
When it comes to getting a beautiful smile, most people focus on their teeth. But your gums play a role in your smile’s appearance as well, and without proper attention they can leave your smile looking worn or uneven.
Fortunately, gum contouring treatment at Llanos Dental Group can help. In this post, Laura Llanos, DMD, describes how gum contouring works and how it can help your smile look its absolute best.
Your gums play a vital role in your oral health, providing a firm base for your teeth and preventing germs from accessing the lower parts of your tooth. But they play another role, too, by creating a frame for your smile.
A balanced smile relies on an ideal balance between your gum tissue and teeth. If your gums are uneven or if they extend far up the tooth surface (a “gummy” smile), your smile won’t look its best — and you won’t feel as confident and self-assured about your appearance.
In a nutshell, gum contouring uses special techniques to reshape your gums and gumline. The overall goal is to sculpt the gumline for a more even, symmetrical balance and a more beautiful result while still maintaining the integrity of your gums and their protective role. Because your smile plays such an integral role in your appearance, gum contouring can improve overall facial aesthetics, too.
Gum contouring begins with a smile assessment and a review of your treatment goals. Dr. Llanos tailors your contouring treatment to your unique goals, performing the procedure as a stand-alone treatment or as part of a more comprehensive cosmetic dentistry plan.
Prior to treatment, Dr. Llanos numbs your gums so you stay comfortable. Depending on your preferences, she may offer sedation or laughing gas (nitrous oxide) to help you relax.
Next, she carefully incises the gum tissue, removing excess tissue and shaping the contours of your gumline to achieve an ideal balance between visible teeth and healthy gums. Most treatments take an hour or so to complete.
Afterward, you can expect some mild soreness. Taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can help. You should avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods for a couple days to give your gums a chance to heal. Dr. Llanos provides complete aftercare instructions to make your recovery quick and comfortable.
Having a beautiful smile is a great way to feel more attractive and confident. To learn how gum contouring can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Llanos and her team at Llanos Dental Group in Miami Lakes, Florida, today.