Let Us Lift Your Smile: Gum Contouring from Dentistry of Bethesda
Do you suffer from a “gummy” smile? A beautiful smile includes the right balance of gums to teeth, but if your gums are overgrown, you may find that your teeth look small and your smile is overpowered by the look of your gums. You want your teeth to have a pleasing size and shape, and a gum contouring procedure, also known as a gum lift, may be the right way to achieve that well-balanced smile.
Causes of a Gummy Smile
A gummy smile, also called excessive gingival display, can be caused by a number of factors. If your teeth erupted abnormally, they may be covered by too much gum tissue even though they are of a normal size and shape. Abnormal development of the upper jaw can also cause gum tissue to protrude and appear excessive. Yet another cause for a gummy smile is a hyperactive muscle in the upper lip that causes your lip to rise too high, revealing too much of your gums when you smile. Whatever the cause, showing off too much gum tissue when you smile can affect your self-esteem. While it’s not medically necessary to correct excessive gum display, a gum lift procedure can go a long way in giving your confidence a boost.
Laser Gum Contouring
A gum lift involves the use of a soft-tissue laser to remove the extra gum tissue, sculpting a gum line that makes your teeth appear longer and reduces the appearance of overgrown gums. After marking the gum tissues that he needs to remove, Dr. Hornstein will employ the LightWalker laser to shape the gums with a gentleness and precision unmatched by traditional surgery with a scalpel. The dental laser not only removes soft tissues but also seals them off simultaneously, which helps prevent excessive swelling and bleeding. Compared to traditional surgeries that involve cutting and stitches, your healing time will be faster and more comfortable than you may have thought possible.
Benefits of Laser Gum Contouring
- Precise removal of excess gum tissue for a natural, symmetrical gum line
- Minimal bleeding and swelling due to laser sealing
- Reduced healing time compared to traditional gum surgery
- Enhances the appearance of your teeth, making your smile look larger and brighter
- Can be combined with teeth whitening or other cosmetic procedures for a comprehensive smile makeover
A More Balanced Smile
Your cosmetic dentist in Bethesda will make sure that the end result appears symmetrical and smooth. Once your teeth make up more of your smile, you may find that your smile appears whiter and brighter as well, and we can provide teeth whitening after your gum lift to really complete the look. A gum lift could be part of your comprehensive smile makeover plan. Check out other cosmetic dental procedures offered at Dentistry of Bethesda, and learn more about laser dentistry as well. A simple gum lift could be just the thing to lift your spirits and make you smile, or it could be just the beginning of a whole new you.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Gum Contouring
- Follow post-operative care instructions carefully to avoid irritation
- Eat soft foods and avoid spicy or acidic foods initially
- Maintain gentle oral hygiene to keep the area clean
- Avoid smoking and alcohol which can delay healing
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress
What to Expect During and After Gum Contouring
- Initial consultation and smile evaluation
- Laser gum contouring performed comfortably in our office
- Minimal discomfort with numbing agents and laser precision
- Quick recovery time with minimal bleeding and swelling
- Possible follow-up teeth whitening to enhance your new smile
Experience the Difference
Dentistry of Bethesda provides compassionate, personalized dental care for all members of your family, including those with special needs. Contact Bethesda dentist Dr. Spencer Hornstein today at (301) 530-2700 to schedule your consultation. We happily treat patients from Silver Spring, North Bethesda, Rockville, Chevy Chase, Potomac, and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring
1. What causes a gummy smile?
A gummy smile can result from excessive gum tissue, abnormal tooth eruption, upper jaw development, or hyperactive upper lip muscles.
2. How is laser gum contouring different from traditional gum surgery?
Laser gum contouring is less invasive, causes less bleeding and swelling, and has a faster recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
3. Is gum contouring a painful procedure?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort because of local anesthesia and the precision of laser treatment, which also reduces healing time.