When we discuss cosmetic dentistry in Astoria, NY, we often focus on the teeth. However, gums also impact our smile’s appearance and health. If you show too much tissue when you smile, then you may benefit from a gum contouring.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Contouring
Question: What is a gummy smile?
Answer: A gummy smile displays too much gingival tissue when the patient smiles. The excess gum tissue could also make teeth appear too small or uneven. The issue develops due to a number of factors, including the eruption of the teeth.
Question: What technology will the contouring procedure employ?
Answer: Instead of a scalpel, we will employ a radiosurgery unit to remove excess tissue with accuracy and precision. We will carefully reshape and sculpt the gum line to ensure a more natural and beautiful appearance. The technology enables our team to perform the procedure with little to no bleeding, no anesthesia, and with a significantly reduced risk of infection when compared to similar procedures performed with a scalpel. Patients also experience a faster healing time (often returning to regular activities 24 hours later).
Question: What if I have poor gum health?
Answer: In some cases, the issue may be related to periodontal disease, which could cause gum tissue to swell or recede. In these situations, we may recommend treatments to improve gum health, such as scaling and root planings. Treating your periodontal issues helps protect your smile from serious complications, such as adult tooth loss.
Question: What is tooth contouring?
Answer: You may have also heard about tooth contouring. While the name is similar, tooth contouring doesn’t require a radiosurgery unit. Instead, we gently buff way small sections of outer tooth structure to reshape malformed or damaged teeth in a single visit. If you have any questions about either gum or tooth contouring, then contact our team today.
Ready to Try Our Gum Contouring Procedure?
Enjoy a beautiful smile, talk to us about our cosmetic and restorative dental procedures. For more information, schedule a consultation with us by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
