Dental Contouring and Gum Reshaping: A Perfect Pair for Smile Makeovers
Combining dental contouring (enamel shaping) with gum reshaping (gingivoplasty) can address uneven teeth edges and excessive or uneven gum lines to create a more symmetrical smile you can be proud of.
In this article, we’ll explore how these two procedures work, and how, when combined, they work together to give you a more balanced aesthetically pleasing smile with minimal invasiveness.
Understanding Dental Contouring
Dental contouring involves gently removing small amounts of tooth enamel to smooth or reshape uneven edges, as well as fix teeth that appear too long or too short, and create space for the addition of crowns and veneers.
Contouring is a quick and painless procedure that can be completed in just one trip to the dentist. This procedure can enhance tooth shape and alignment, and improve the overall aesthetics of your smile without the need for major restorative work.
However, not all guests are candidates for dental contouring. Guests with healthy teeth and proper enamel thickness looking for mild misalignment or cosmetic fixtures are eligible for dental contouring. However, those with significant dental issues, or those with thin enamel, active cavities, and severe tooth sensitivity will likely not be candidates for contouring.
What Is Gum Reshaping (Gingivoplasty)?
Gum reshaping, also known as gingivoplasty, involves sculpting or removing excess gum tissue for a balanced gum line. Gingivoplasty can address “gummy” smiles where too much of the gumline is visible. It can also deal with uneven gingival contours that can make teeth appear longer or shorter.
The process of gingivoplasty involves an oral surgeon using laser gum contouring or other surgical methods to remove gum tissue. Guests are typically put under local anesthesia during the procedure to ensure their comfort and make it easier for the dental professional.
Gum reshaping can cause some mild discomfort after the procedure that can last for 1-2 weeks. This soreness is typically minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Why Combine Dental Contouring and Gum Reshaping?
While both dental contouring and gum reshaping are effective on their own, they can be particularly beneficial when combined. Aligning tooth shapes and sculpting gums can create a more symmetrical smile that enhances the tooth-to-gum ratio and improves overall aesthetics.
Combining dental contouring and gum reshaping also has the benefit of reducing the number of appointments and healing periods needed to revamp your smile. Guests who opt for a combined approach can develop a personalized care plan with their dentist that addresses multiple cosmetic concerns at once, rather than needing to take the time to address them separately over a longer period.
Plus, addressing tooth shapes and gum size will provide a more complete makeover of your smile that will enhance self-esteem and provide benefits in both your personal and professional lives.
The Contouring and Reshaping Procedure Step-by-Step
Initial Consultation
The first step in a contouring and reshaping plan is a comprehensive consultation with a dental professional who can make recommendations and develop a treatment schedule. During this consultation, your dentist may conduct X-rays or other digital imaging tools to help identify potential issues or areas that need adjustment.
Enamel Shaping
The next step in the process will be for a dentist to re-shape your enamel. Dental professionals use specialized tools to gently file or sand the tooth edges and remove small amounts of enamel to correct chips, uneven surfaces, or minor overlaps.
Gum Contouring
Next comes the gum contouring. A dentist will remove excess tissue by trimming or sculpting the area. Oftentimes, they will use a laser for more precise results. For more extensive reshaping, a dentist may also provide sutures to close wounds and promote faster healing.
Final Polishing & Follow-Up
Finally, after the procedures are complete, the dentist will conduct final polishing procedures to smooth the contoured areas and check bite alignment. They will also provide post-procedure care instructions including how to properly conduct oral hygiene, go over any dietary restrictions, and prescribe any medications needed for soreness.
The dentist will also schedule any follow-up visits needed to monitor progress and make any needed adjustments.
Results and Aftercare
After combining dental contouring and gum reshaping, guests often notice straighter tooth edges and a more balanced gumline immediately after the procedures. While some guests do experience mild swelling or sensitivity, that typically subsides within a few days.
After the procedure, your dentist will discuss long-term aftercare to ensure you maintain your results. This includes practicing good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing regularly and going in for scheduled cleanings) to maintain the new contours. Additionally, you’ll want to avoid biting into hard objects (such as ice or hard candy) to minimize the risk of chipping or receding gums.
You may need to make a return trip to the dentist for minor enamel smoothing or gum line refinements after the initial healing period is complete. Consult with your dentist if you notice any uneven edges or if you see tissue regrowing in spots it was removed.
Your Improved Smile Starts at Ideal Dental
Dental contouring and gum reshaping are powerful and minimally invasive ways to revamp your smile and restore your self-confidence. If you have minor chipping, uneven tooth edges, or a “gummy” smile, you may benefit significantly from this combined approach to your oral health.
If you’re ready to start your journey to a healthier smile, consult with your local Ideal Dental today to schedule a consultation and determine if dental contouring and gum reshaping is right for you.