Since everyone’s smile is different, smile improvement can mean something different to everyone, too. For example, while many cosmetic dental treatments focus on improving the appearance of your tooth structure, cosmetic gum contouring may be a more appropriate solution for certain smile concerns. Most commonly, it can help patients with a gummy smile create a more even and symmetrical gum line, which can have a dramatic and positive effect on their smile’s overall appearance, as well as much more.
The process of contouring gum tissues is just as it sounds. It involves gently and artistically trimming small amounts of gum tissues to recontour, or reshape, the gum line around your teeth. It’s most commonly recommended for patients who exhibit gummy smiles, which means certain teeth have more gum tissue covering them than others. This creates an asymmetrical appearance that can make your entire smile seem crooked or out of alignment. In addition to its appearance, a gummy smile might also require attention due to the increased risks of certain oral health conditions it can pose if not addressed promptly.
Contouring your gums to make them straighter has an immediate impact on your smile’s appearance, but like most cosmetic dental treatments, the benefits go beyond just cosmetic. For instance, a straighter and more even gum line is less likely to make it easier for oral bacteria to gather underneath them. This means your risks of developing gum disease will be lower, as well as your risks of complications related to diseased gums, such as a heightened risk of losing one or more teeth. With contouring, keeping your smile healthy and beautiful in the future will be much more successful.
You might not have a gummy smile, but there are things that can affect the symmetry of your gum line anyway. For example, after some cosmetic or restorative treatments, such as porcelain veneers or dental crowns, the procedure may affect the gum line surrounding the tooth or teeth in question. Minor gum contouring can straighten this area, putting the final touches on your smile improvement plan to create optimal results. During your smile makeover consultation, we’ll discuss whether or not you may benefit from making gum contouring part of your overall treatment plan.
Cosmetic gum contouring can help you significantly improve the appearance of a gummy smile, or put the perfect finishing touches on your smile makeover plan. To schedule an appointment, call Yelena Popkova D.D.S. in Merrimack, NH, today at 603-595-9400. We also serve the residents of Nashua, Hudson, Manchester, Milford, and all surrounding communities.