Have you heard the phrase “gummy smile”? It’s just what it sounds like, a smile that shows more gums than teeth. The opposite can also be true – maybe there’s not enough gum tissue covering up your pearly whites. While there’s nothing medically worrisome about it, disproportion between the gums and teeth can really take away from your confidence and leave you wanting to do anything other than grin. Did you know there is a solution for this issue called gum recontouring? Keep reading to learn more about what it is and whether or not you are eligible.
What Is Gum Recontouring?
Gum recontouring is a simple cosmetic procedure in which your dentist either removes excess gum tissue so that more tooth enamel shows when you smile and speak, or adds gum tissue to areas where it is lacking. It is a way to reframe the smile without making any drastic changes – simply altering the proportions of gum tissue vs. tooth is an easy way to dramatically improve your overall appearance.
Are You a Candidate for Recontouring?
If you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your smile as a result of your gum tissue – whether there is too much or not enough – then chances are excellent that you are a good candidate for gum recontouring.
The only way to know for sure whether or not you can benefit from this procedure is to book a consultation with your cosmetic dentist. When you do, they will consider the following:
- Overall cosmetic needs: There are a variety of procedures that can improve the appearance of your smile. Your cosmetic dentist will also consider whether or not you would be better served by a procedure like porcelain veneers, which may be an appropriate solution if the tooth enamel is damaged or if the teeth would appear short even after removing gum tissue.
- Oral health: If you are experiencing gum disease or tooth decay, your dentist will recommend treating these issues first before starting any cosmetic treatment. The most important thing is always your oral health – so ensuring yours is in tip top shape is key.
Now that you know more about gum recontouring, it’s an excellent time to get in touch with your dentist to discuss whether or not this is a good treatment for you. Don’t wait to get started on the smile of your dreams!
Meet the Professionals
Dr. Buck and Dr. DeSimone offer a full range of high-quality dentistry treatments for patients of Hulen Crossing Family Dental. Dr. Buck is a highly experienced general dentist and Dr. DeSimone is the professional you can turn to for any oral surgery needs. To learn more about gum recontouring, including whether or not you are eligible for this treatment, contact the office at (682) 207-6555.