Do you have a ‘gummy smile’? Debbie Harry does, as did Miley Cyrus. I just want to focus your attention on that all important ‘did’. Lots of people are perfectly happy with a bit of gum in their smile but, if you want to puts yours in the past tense, then you might want to hear about gum contouring.

What is gum contouring?

Glad you asked! It is essentially the reshaping of gum tissue.  When excess gum tissue covers part of the teeth, it can make teeth appear smaller and affect the smile. Gum contouring can equally help when there is too little gum, such as when tissue pulls away from the teeth or when there is such a small amount of gum tissue that the tooth root is exposed.

What ‘exactly’ is a gummy smile?

It is when a there is a high percentage of gum covering an individual’s teeth. It is mostly the result of genetics, but can be caused by some health conditions or as a side effect of certain medications. There aren’t any known medical issues linked to a gummy smile, it is mostly a matter of aesthetics and how they affect your confidence. Some care, some don’t.

What does gum contouring involve?

First of all, a local anaesthetic will be administered to the appropriate area. Either a scalpel or special laser device is then used to trim away excess gum. Your dentist will also reshape your gum to ensure it stays in place. Healing after treatment is usually very quick, but is even quicker when a laser device is used during surgery as it seals blood vessels. In some instances, removal the gum will not be enough. In these instances, some of the bone in which the teeth are rooted might need to be removed. This sound far more intimidating than simply cutting away gum, but it is a relatively simple procedure.

Talk to us

Whether you’re sold on gum contouring or simply have questions, please talk to us at Liverpool Dental Spa. We will happily answer whatever is on your mind!