Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring
IN LAS VEGAS & HENDERSON, NV
ANTHEM PERIO, LAS VEGAS' CHOICE FOR ADVANCED PERIODONTICS
A gummy smile, also known as excessive gingival display, occurs when a larger-than-average amount of gum tissue is visible beneath the upper lip. This creates an uneven balance between the gums and teeth. It may be caused by delayed passive eruption, overeruption of the upper front teeth, excessive vertical growth of the upper jaw, overactive lip elevator muscles, genetic factors, or a combination of these conditions.
Although a gummy smile doesn’t always mean there is an oral health problem, some patients may feel self-conscious about its appearance. Gum contouring is one of several available treatment options for a gummy smile. During the procedure, excess gum tissue is carefully removed and reshaped using a laser or scalpel to expose more of the tooth surface and create a more balanced, proportionate smile.
Benefits of Gum Contouring for Gummy Smiles
Patients who have gum contouring performed will benefit in the following ways:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Restores proper ratio of gums to teeth
- Improved appearance of your smile will increase your self-confidence
- Safe
- Reduces risk of tooth decay
- Long-lasting results
- Procedure can be completed in just one visit
The Gum Contouring Procedure
An initial consultation and general examination will be necessary to determine if gum contouring is the right treatment option for you. During this visit, we will review your health history, discuss your oral health concerns and goals, and examine your teeth, gums, and cheeks to determine your overall health and identify any underlying issues. Following this examination, we will explain available treatment options and answer any questions you have.
If it is determined that gum contouring is necessary, your follow-up appointment will begin with an explanation of what to expect during the procedure. If you prefer, we are happy to draw a line to mark where the new gum line will be so you understand how much gum is being removed and what the final shape will be. Next, we will administer a local anesthetic and/or sedation, and once you are properly numbed/sedated, we will begin removing gum tissue. As gum tissue is removed using either a scalpel or laser, more of the tooth’s enamel will be visible, resulting in a more equal ratio of gums to teeth. Once the proper amount of gum tissue has been removed, we will examine the results and make any final adjustments, after which the surgery will be complete.
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Improve Your Oral Health or Replace Missing Teeth?
Aftercare Following Gum Contouring
Once your procedure is complete, we will provide post-operative instructions to ensure that you minimize your risk of developing complications and enjoy a fast recovery time. Following a gum contouring procedure, it is common to experience sensitivity and swelling, but this can typically be managed using ice packs and over-the-counter pain-relieving medication. If you are prescribed pain-relieving medication and/or antibiotics, it is essential to follow the recommended dose until the prescription runs out.
Once you have fully recovered, you can return to your normal diet and self-care practices; however, taking consistent good care of your oral health will reduce the likelihood of needing similar treatments in the future, especially if this procedure was performed because of improper or insufficient self-care. Make it a habit to brush your teeth twice daily (at a minimum) for at least two minutes each time. Also, remember to brush your tongue and cheeks, as well as behind the lower and upper front teeth.
Flossing at least once a day and being mindful of the type of foods and beverages you consume are also important steps to maintaining good oral health and preserving the integrity of your teeth. Finally, continuing to schedule regular checkups every six months (or more if necessary) is the most important step you can take to maintain your oral health and identify and correct issues before they develop into something more significant. By following these best practices, you will maximize your recovery process and continue to enjoy good oral health!
Cost of Gum Contouring for Gummy Smiles
The cost of gum contouring and/or treating a gummy smile is contingent on a variety of factors, including the severity of your case, the type of treatment performed, whether dental sedation is used, and your dental insurance plan. At Anthem Periodontics and Dental Implants, we are committed to helping you maximize your insurance reimbursement so you can receive optimal care, which is why we will file your claim and handle your paperwork. Please be aware, though, that any remaining balance following coverage is your responsibility to cover.
Before scheduling your appointment, we will provide an estimated total cost and answer any questions you have concerning payment plan options, such as Care Credit and/or Lending Club, which offer interest-free payment plans for six-to-twelve-month periods.
For your convenience, we accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express.
Schedule Your Appointment
At Anthem Periodontics and Dental Implants, protecting your oral health is our top priority. Our team is committed to providing you with comprehensive periodontal care and dental implant services designed to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile. To learn more about gum contouring or schedule an appointment, contact our office at (702) 270-4600. We look forward to providing you with personalized care tailored to meet your needs.