What is gum recontouring and reshaping?

If you have uneven gums then your dentist may have recommended gum recontouring. But what exactly is gum recontouring? In today's post, our Ontario dentists describe the gum recontouring and gum reshaping procedures and why they might be recommended.

The Gum Recontouring & Gum Shaping Procedure

Some people suffer from their gums being too high or too low, which causes their teeth to appear too large or too small, respectively. When it comes to cosmetic dental treatments, gum recontouring or gum reshaping (both terms are interchangeable) refers to the procedure which is used to help even out your gums and adjust the appearance of your smile.

What is the cause of uneven gums?

The answer to this question is difficult to give because there are a variety of factors that can contribute to an uneven gum line. "Gummy smile" refers to gums that cover a large portion of the teeth, making them appear small. It can be caused by genetics, certain health problems, and even prescribed medications.

If you experience an insufficient amount of gum tissue, which can result in decay and eventual tooth loss caused by the gum line receding and exposing more of the tooth as well as the root of the tooth.

Is gum recontouring a necessary procedure?

Gum contouring or reshaping is a cosmetic procedure that is performed on the gums. The majority of people who seek gum reshaping or recontouring do so in order to have a cleaner, more even smile. Gum recontouring or shaping may also be recommended by your dentist as a necessary periodontal procedure. If an uneven gum line is a contributing factor to tooth decay or infection, this is most likely the situation.

What to expect during gum recontouring surgery

Your dental professional will perform your gum recontouring surgery using scalpels, lasers, radiosurgery, and other instruments to carry out the procedure, among other methods. It is common practice to contour and seal the gum tissue in order to achieve the desired gum line with the laser. Besides that, it can aid in the prevention of bleeding from the wound. In the end, lasers can also help to kill bacteria and eliminate the areas in your mouth where they breed, which will help to prevent infections.

What is the recovery process after gum reshaping surgery?

The majority of dentists will likely recommend that you maintain good oral hygiene for the first few weeks after having surgery. Brush and floss your teeth gently for the first few days after surgery to avoid irritating the surgical area.

After that, you can brush and floss as usual. Excessive exposure to irritants can result in bleeding and infection. If you find yourself in this situation, a soft-bristle toothbrush should suffice. Even after everything has been done and healed, to avoid future problems, it is still recommended that you keep up with your oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day are recommended.

After you have brushed your teeth it is recommended to use a mouthwash to remove and lingering bacteria, preferably using a mouthwash that is free of alcohol. It is critical that the mouthwash be free of alcohol in order to avoid irritating the delicate gum tissue. As previously stated, even when using mouthwash, irritation of the gums can result in bleeding and infection of the gums.