While braces and Invisalign are some of the most popular ways to achieve a dazzling smile, there are certain issues that braces won’t fix. For example, you may be feeling self-conscious about your smile due to the fact that your gums are showing. Perhaps your teeth look smaller and not as visible due to an excess of gum tissue.
If this is the case, you may benefit from a procedure called gum contouring. Using a laser, scalpel or radiosurgery, your dentist will safely remove and reshape your gums to be more aesthetically pleasing. If this is something you might be interested in, read on to discover and dispel some of the most common myths about this procedure.
Myth 1: It Hurts
Firstly, before beginning the procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb and reduce pain in the treated area. Due to this, pain and discomfort should be very minimal, if at all.
After your surgery, your dentist will give you instructions, and it’s very important that you follow these instructions and take your prescribed medication. Immediately following your procedure, stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies and soups. Avoid spicy foods or foods that are hard to chew as your mouth will still be healing. Avoid taking Aspirin, as this can lead to more bleeding than is necessary.
Myth 2: It Compromises Your Teeth
When gum contouring is done by an experienced professional, it should never compromise the integrity of your natural teeth. Your dentist will outline exactly how much of your gum they are contouring and removing. They will never take out more than is necessary or leave you with too thin of a gum line.
It’s important to choose a reputable dentist (as with any cosmetic procedure) and to do your due diligence by reading reviews, asking questions and doing your research before the procedure. Ideally, your dentist will take a good look at your mouth and draw up a plan on how exactly they plan to contour your gums. This ensures the procedure will be done safely and without any mishaps or mistakes.
Myth 3: It’s Purely Cosmetic
While gum contouring may seem like a procedure that is purely cosmetic, that is not completely true. Your smile is one of the most noticeable and important defining features and having insecurities in this department can definitely impact your mental health.
Feeling insecure about your smile can affect your self-esteem and it can cost you relationships, job prospects, and happiness. All in all, gum contouring not only makes your teeth look better, it’s also a wise investment in your self-esteem and mental health.
Myth 4: Gums Will Grow Again
Rest assured that your gums will most likely not grow back once the procedure is completed. You will get to enjoy your new smile for a lifetime and you won’t have to worry about repeating the surgery or getting “touched up” later on down the road.
Myth 5: It’s Not Safe
Contrary to what you may have heard, gum contouring is very safe and is performed regularly by trained dental professionals. It’s a very popular and effective way to treat “gummy” smiles and expose more of your enamel for a brighter smile.
In fact, the procedure can be done in a matter of 1-2 hours and is not nearly as invasive or complicated as people may believe. As long as you choose a reputable dentist, you will have nothing to worry about. So, if you are unhappy with the look of your teeth and gums, don’t hesitate to speak to your dentist about alternative solutions.
Myth 6: It’s Only for Excess Gums
Keep in mind that gum contouring does not only mean removing from the gum line. It also includes reshaping for uneven gum lines and grafting when teeth are recessed and the gum line is too far back.
Gum contouring and grafting can restore your gum line and help preserve and protect your natural teeth from further recession of the gums. Your dentist may remove tissue from another part of your mouth to graft back onto your gums. The new gums will need to be sutured together while healing until they are fully formed.
Always remember that when dealing with gum contouring and any cosmetic dental enhancements, it’s important to speak with a reputable dentist who understands your needs. Here at Bristol Dental, we take ultimate pride in our work and the health of our clients. We come equipped with the knowledge, expertise and experience to give you the smile you deserve. For more information on gum contouring surgery in Mississauga and the GTA, please contact Bristol Dental at 866-673-2109 or contact us here. We believe in working with our clients to give them the smile of their dreams. You deserve it! Contact us today for more information about our services.
