What Is The Healing Process For Gum Contouring?

man with nice teeth smiling

For many patients in Las Vegas, NV, a gummy smile is a concern. At Michaela Tozzi, DMD, we can repair a smile and improve oral health with gum contouring surgery. When your gums are overgrown, it can make your teeth look small. With gum contouring, Dr. Michaela Tozzi removes small portions of gum tissue to create a more appealing contour. This creates a more attractive smile and improves oral health by reducing places that bacteria can remain trapped, lowering your chances of developing gum disease and tooth decay. When you’re looking for ways to repair and restore a gummy smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. Tozzi to learn about gum contouring near Las Vegas.

What can cause gums to grow over teeth?

There are several things that can lead to gums growing unevenly, including genetics, certain medical conditions, or even some medications. Gums that are too high can make teeth look long and are usually caused by gum recession. When left untreated, this can lead to tooth decay and, in severe cases, tooth loss. This gum recession can even be a sign of periodontal disease. Never ignore the fact that your gums look different.

Who is the best candidate for gum contouring?

You may be a good candidate for gum contouring surgery in Las Vegas, NV if:

  • You are looking to restore your gummy smile

  • Your gums cover most of your teeth

  • You don’t have any existing dental issues (If you do, they must be resolved before surgery)

  • You get frequent oral infections or have gum disease

When your gums are too low, gum contouring gives you a more even-looking gumline.

What is gum contouring?

Dr. Tozzi performs gum contouring at her Las Vegas, NV area office. Although most patients receive local anesthesia, she also uses sedation therapy for patients who experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. First, the teeth and gums are cleaned and dried. Next, she uses the BIOLASE® Epic™ laser to cut away excess gum tissue, which reveals a higher gumline. This laser tool cauterizes tissue to help minimize bleeding. Once the laser gum contouring procedure is complete, the patient’s mouth is cleaned thoroughly.

Recovery after gum contouring

After gum contouring, swelling or tenderness is normal and resolves itself a few weeks after the gums are fully healed. A saline rinse (a teaspoon of salt per eight ounces of warm water and a cap of hydrogen peroxide) helps clean debris after eating. Be careful of the food you eat during recovery as any food containing seeds, including popcorn, poppy seeds, or kiwi, can get under your gums while they’re healing.

Dr. Tozzi can provide her patients with tips on how to keep their gums healthy and clean during recovery. Regular dental exams and routine dental cleanings are essential after gum contouring to help ensure oral health stays intact.

Will my insurance cover gum contouring?

Gum contouring is usually considered an elective procedure since it is considered a cosmetic procedure. This means that it is rarely covered by insurance. However, Dr. Tozzi accepts several different payment methods and offers low-interest financing to help make the costs associated with gum contouring more affordable to her patients. At your initial consultation near Las Vegas, NV, we can calculate the estimated costs associated with gum contouring surgery before you commit to the procedure.

Learn how gum contouring improves your oral health

Dr. Michaela Tozzi offers gum contouring surgery to patients wishing to repair a gummy smile near Las Vegas, NV. This laser gum contouring treatment can be completed in one visit. To learn if you’re a candidate for gum contouring surgery, schedule a consultation at Michaela Tozzi, DMD today.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.