Located in Dallas, TX, the Lakewood Dental Group provides transformative gum shaping procedures for patients looking to enhance their smiles. Often called tissue sculpting or gum reshaping, this procedure evens out the gumline for a beautifully symmetrical smile.
Why do I have a gummy smile or uneven gums?
For many patients, a gummy smile or uneven gums are the result of genetics. For others, the abnormal overgrowth of gum tissue, also called gingival hyperplasia, is caused by certain medications or health conditions, such as:
- Calcium channel blockers for high blood pressure
- Anti-seizure medications
- Gum disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- Diabetes
- Vitamin deficiencies
Regardless of the cause, a low or uneven gumline can make teeth appear small or misshapen. Subsequently, many patients with uneven or excess gum tissue feel self-conscious about their gummy smiles.
What is gum shaping?
Gum shaping is a procedure in which our Lakewood cosmetic dentists trim a small amount of excess gum tissue to expose more of the underlying tooth. As a result, teeth appear longer and more symmetrical.
What is the procedure like?
First, Dr. Shaun Sigurdson and Dr. Mihir Patel will numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic. Once the area is sufficiently numbed, they will begin using a scalpel or soft-tissue laser to remove excess gum tissue and reshape the gumline.
Patients are awake the entire time, but they should not feel any discomfort. Depending on how much gum tissue Dr. Sigurdson or Dr. Patel needs to remove, patients can expect the procedure to last between one to two hours.
Does gum shaping hurt?
During the procedure, patients may feel some pressure, but they should not feel any pain. After the procedure, however, patients may experience some mild to moderate discomfort.
Typically, over-the-counter painkillers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, help diminish postoperative pain and swelling. However, Dr. Sigurdson or Dr. Patel may prescribe prescription painkillers for patients who need them. Patients can also apply cold compresses or ice packs to their mouths for 15 to 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and soothe any discomfort.
How long does it take to recover?
Cosmetic gum shaping is a relatively conservative surgical procedure, so recovery time is minimal. This means that patients can usually resume their normal daily activities after 48 to 72 hours following their procedure. However, reshaped gums may need several days or weeks to completely heal.
Dr. Sigurdson and Dr. Patel can prescribe an antibiotic mouthwash to limit the risk of infection and speed up the recovery process. They also suggest that patients alter their diets while they are recovering. For example, they recommend eating softer foods, like soups and smoothies, for a few days after the procedure.
Ask Us About Cosmetic Gum Shaping Today!
Are you ready to discuss treatment options for a gummy smile with a compassionate Lakewood dentist? Then, schedule a consultation to talk about cosmetic gum shaping at Lakewood Dental Group today!
Getting started is easy–just call our Dallas office at (214) 827-1885 or schedule your appointment online here.
