There are times when gums can be disproportionate to the teeth. Oftentimes, this results in what’s known as a gummy smile. If you have a gummy smile, you may feel self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth and gums. You may feel insecure about your smile because your gums are uneven and asymmetrical. Your mouth should make you feel you confident to smile and laugh. Gum issues may lower your confidence. Along with affecting your confidence, gum disproportion or unevenness may make them more difficult to clean leaving you at risk of gum disease. Gum disease can cause even more appearance and health problems for your gums. Your gums may even begin to recede from your teeth. Many of the above-stated gum issues can be addressed with laser gum contouring.
What Is Laser Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure where a soft-tissue laser is used to sculpt and contour the gum line to the desired appearance. Traditionally, gum contouring was done surgically with a scalpel and there would be a lengthy recovery time. Contouring with a laser limits the discomfort and the recovery time. Gum contouring can be done along with other cosmetic procedures to provide a full-smile makeover.
Gum Disease Prevention
Gum disease is caused by buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar along the line where the gums meet the teeth. A gum line that is uneven may lead to ineffective cleaning, which may lead to left-behind food particles and bacteria. Gum disease can be reversed if caught in the early stage known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums; it may cause swollen, puffy, gums. Over time, without treatment, gingivitis may progress into periodontitis. Advanced gum disease can wreak havoc on your gums causing the gums to recede from the teeth. At this stage, the bones and roots of the tooth may become exposed. Gum contouring can be done to reshape gums that have been affected by periodontitis.
Ask your dentist about laser gum contouring.
If you have a gummy smile or an uneven gum line, gum contouring may be right for you. To schedule a consultation, call Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS, today at 913-381-2600.