What Is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring in Las Vegas can transform your smile.

Gum contouring (also called a gum lift) is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can change the shape of the gum tissue surrounding your teeth. A cosmetic dentist can use gum contouring to remove excessive gingival tissue.

This extra tissue will give you a “gummy” smile. Gum contouring and Gingival tissue grafting can also be used to restore and enhance the receded gum tissue.

How do I know if gum contouring is right for my smile?

Typically, this is a personal decision based on how you feel about your smile. Common reasons for desiring gum contouring include:

• Uneven Gums
• Excessive Gum Tissue Present
• Presence Of Gum Recession

Marielaina Perrone DDS is highly trained and will tell you if this gum contouring procedure is correct for you.

Is there pain or discomfort associated with the gum contouring?

Most patients report some slight discomfort following the smile makeover procedure. During the procedure, the area worked on will be anesthetized so you will be comfortable throughout. The degree of discomfort typically has to do with the amount of work done during the procedure.

The technique used by the dentist will also play a role. Dr. Perrone uses both a scalpel and a laser for gingival contouring. Each has its pros and cons for an individual’s smile.

How Is The Smile Makeover Recovery In Las Vegas?

The recovery and healing process will also heavily depend on the techniques used for the gum contouring cosmetic procedure. When a scalpel is used for gum contouring, sutures will be needed. This use of a scalpel can cause a little more overall discomfort.

A specialized dental laser (laser gum contouring) can treat the gums of many patients, decreasing the recovery and healing time. You can typically manage Post-surgery discomfort by applying ice packs to your face for 15 minutes at a time and using over-the-counter pain medications.

Are there any restrictions during gum tissue contouring recovery?

Yes. You must be careful what you eat following surgery since your gums will be sensitive while healing. You should avoid eating anything sharp that could cut, poke, or irritate them. Most patients stick with a soft diet of yogurt, soup, or ice cream for a few days following surgery.

At your follow-up visit, Dr. Perrone will examine the gum tissues to ensure everything is healing correctly. If all looks good, she will let you know when you return to your regular diet without restrictions.

You may be prescribed a prescription antibiotic to help ensure a potential infection does not develop. Your dentist will also instruct you to brush your teeth gently until healing is completed.

Is this purely a cosmetic procedure, or are there medical reasons for contouring and shaping?

Gum lift contouring and grafting can help restore and enhance your smile.

Gum recession is typically caused by gum disease, but you could also experience this due to excessive tooth brushing, certain prescription medications, or even genetics. No matter the reason, restoring your gingival tissue may become necessary to maintain optimal oral health.

Will My Dental Insurance Pay For Gum Line Contouring?

It depends on your dental insurance benefits and whether you get the procedure for cosmetic or medical reasons. Typically, most dental insurance will pay for at least part of it for health reasons.

Are there any risks associated with gum line contouring?

As with any surgical procedure, infection is possible. If you follow the aftercare instructions diligently, you will reduce your risk for infection significantly.

Gum Contouring Las Vegas

If you do not like the appearance of your smile, call Las Vegas Dentist Marielaina Perrone DDS at 702-458-2929 and schedule an appointment for a smile makeover. She can complete a thorough examination and take X-rays to determine the best course of action for your smile if it shows too much gum tissue.

Once you are in optimal oral health and your gums continue to remain an obvious smile issue, you should explore gum contouring further, and we can then recommend the best cosmetic procedures for you to enhance your smile in Las Vegas, Henderson, or Summerlin, NV.

A gum line lift boosts more than your smile. It also increases your self-confidence.