Gum Reshaping: What is it and how can it affect your smile?

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Have you ever been told that you have a “gummy” smile, or perhaps you have experienced pain from receding gum tissue? If you find yourself relating to this statement, call Dr. Paul Reese in Mountain Home, Arkansas today to schedule a consultation to learn how you can have a perfect smile with the help of a gum reshaping treatment plan.

Gum shaping or gum contouring involves the removal of excess gum tissue, either manually or more commonly with a laser to improve the appearance of the gum line. Ideally, the gum line should appear even and smooth, acting as a frame to compliment a person’s smile. Receding gum lines due to aging, natural wear of the gum tissue, or periodontal disease can also be repaired with gum surgery through the process of a gum graft. To better prepare you for your consultation, we have prepared a simple breakdown of what you may expect from either gum contouring or gum grafting.

Gum Contouring

Gone are the days of painful gum reconstruction through the use of a scalpel, and in are the days of laser technology. Most gum reshaping procedures require only one office visit and require very minimal and painless down time.

Local anesthetic is applied to alleviate discomfort.
A diode laser is then used to gently remove excess gum tissue, re-contour the gum line, and seal the remaining tissue.
This can all be done with very little pain and no bleeding or stitches.
Light swelling may last for up to a week, but should not interfere with your daily activities.

Gum Tissue Grafting

Maybe having excess gum tissue is not your chief complaint, but rather you have the opposite. Gum tissue grafting may be necessary if you are experiencing hypersensitivity due to an exposed root surface or if your gum tissue has begun to recede due to root decay. During gum grafting surgery, your doctor will most likely take connective tissue from the roof of your mouth and suture it to the gum line, allowing for more tissue to grow and closing the exposed root surface.

Anesthesia will be used; your insurance may determine if you are awake but numb, if you are given an oral medication, or if you will qualify for an IV drip.
Depending on your specific needs, one of two types of grafts may be conducted; connective tissue graft of the free gingival graft.
Connective tissue grafts are the most commonly performed. The doctor will make an incision onto the roof of your mouth, removing the tissue that is just under the surface to repair the receding gum line.
Free gingival grafts are very similar to the connective tissue graft, but use the tissue directly from the roof of your mouth. This option is used to help thicken the gum line.
Recovery from gum grafting surgery is a lot like recovering from getting your wisdom teeth removed; strict diet, cool foods, and minimal physical activity. Plan for a 6-8 week recovery.
The amount of pain you experience will be determined by the type of procedure performed.

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Do not suffer any longer with a “gummy” or receding smile that leaves you self-conscious or in pain. Call Dr. Reese in Mountain Home today at (870) 424-5900 or visit www.reesedenistry.com to schedule your consultation to determine the best treatment plan for you.