Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS
Some gums are low, some are high, and some are uneven. Your gums should never be overlooked! It can be frustrating to have a great set of teeth but not feel confident in your smile due to the appearance of your gums.
Gingivoplasty, often referred to as gum reshaping or gum contouring, is a cosmetic dental procedure that can help you achieve the perfect smile by reshaping your gum line. This minor surgical procedure is used to correct uneven or excessive gum tissue, making them appear more natural and symmetrical.
In our previous blog we talked about a surgical procedure called gingivectomy and why it is necessary. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits and process of gingivoplasty and how it can shape your perfect smile!
Table of Contents
- The Benefits of Gum Reshaping
- Gingivectomy vs. Gingivoplasty
- The Process of Gum Reshaping
- Your Perfect Smile With Highland Ranch Periodontist
- FAQ
Key Takeaway
Gingivoplasty is a safe and effective cosmetic dental treatment. The goal of this procedure is to reshape your gum line to balance out the tooth to gum ratio. It improves the appearance of your smile and contributes to improved oral health.
The Benefits of Gum Reshaping
- Cosmetic enhancement: For individuals with a gummy smile, excessive gum tissue can overshadow the teeth, making them appear shorter. Gingivoplasty can improve the aesthetics of your smile by revealing more of your teeth.
- Health improvement: Removing diseased gum tissue and infected pockets prevents further spread of the bacterial infection, contributing to healthier gum tissues and oral health.
- Prevention of further Issues: By addressing hypertrophic gum tissue and reducing pocket depth, gingivoplasty helps to prevent potential bone loss and connective tissue damage.
Gingivectomy vs. Gingivoplasty
Both surgical procedures aim to correct issues related to gum tissues, but they serve different purposes:
- Gingivectomy is primarily performed to remove diseased gum tissue, focusing on health improvement by eliminating periodontal pockets.
- Gingivoplasty is done in conjunction with gingivectomy for cosmetic reasons, enhancing the gingival contours and overall appearance of the smile.
The Process of Gum Reshaping
Gummy smile laser treatment is a minimally invasive option for gingivoplasty, offering a quicker healing process with less discomfort compared to traditional methods. The steps typically involve:
- Initial consultation: Your dental professional assesses your oral health, the extent of excess tissue, and discusses your aesthetic goals.
- The procedure: Using precise laser technology, the excess gum tissue is removed, and the gingival margin is reshaped to achieve the desired look while ensuring the health of the underlying bone tissue and teeth roots.
- Healing and recovery: Complete healing may take a few weeks. Your dentist will give you aftercare instructions to follow.
Aftercare
Here are some steps you can take for speedy recovery:
- Don’t brush or floss your teeth for the first 24 hours.
- Follow a soft diet for the first few days after surgery, and avoid spicy, hard, or crunchy foods that may irritate the healing gums.
- Do not smoke, as it can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
- Regularly attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Your Perfect Smile With Highland Ranch Periodontist
At Highland Ranch Periodontist, we specialize in periodontal treatments, including gingivoplasty and gingivectomy. Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to achieve your best smile.
If you are searching for a “periodontist in Highlands Ranch, CO” or “dentist near me” consult with Dr. Kerri Font, DDS, or Dr. Mike Norouzinia, DDS, to explore your options. Call (303) 683-1144 to book an appointment or complete our online inquiry form.
A beautiful smile starts with healthy gums!
FAQ
After your gingivoplasty, mild discomfort and swelling are common but manageable with prescribed medication. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions closely to ensure a smooth healing process.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, the results of gingivoplasty can be long-lasting.
Gingivoplasty is aimed at reshaping excessive gum tissue, not adding tissue. For receding gums, other periodontal treatments like gum grafting might be recommended by your dentist.
Coverage varies by insurance plan. If the procedure is deemed medically necessary, part of the costs may be covered. It’s best to consult with your insurance provider and dental office for a definitive answer.