How We Can Treat Your “Gummy Smile”

Some patients come to us wanting to improve the way their teeth look. Whether they want whiter teeth, straighter teeth, or treatment for chipped, cracked, broken, or missing teeth, we can help. But we can also treat a variety of gum problems, such as a gummy smile.

If your gums are higher, then it might look like you have very long teeth. If your gums are lower, your teeth may look very small. This latter case is what’s sometimes called a gummy smile, where a patient’s smile is overwhelmed by their gums instead of their gums complimenting their teeth.

If you have a “gummy smile”, we have some exciting news for you: there’s a way to change it! Here’s more information about how to treat this cosmetic gum issue:

Gum Contouring at Optima Dental Spa

At Optima Dental Spa, we offer a cosmetic dental service called gum contouring. This procedure is used to even out the gum line, whether your gums are high or low. You may also hear of the procedure being referred to elsewhere as gum reshaping, or maybe even tissue sculpting.

We’ll first discuss where you want your new gum line to be and mark it. Next, we’ll apply local anesthetic to numb the area so you can sit comfortably through the procedure. We will then remove the excess gum tissue to achieve the desired results.

Recovery After Gum Contouring

There is a short recovery period after getting gum contouring. How long this is ranges from patient to patient–it could be a few days or a couple of weeks.

In general, however, gums are known to heal quickly with proper oral hygiene and a balanced diet. While you’re recovering, be sure to rest and avoid tobacco products. If you take an over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen, be sure to only take as the label directs. Additionally, follow the instructions we’ll give you at your appointment.

Ready to Improve Your Gummy Smile?

Tired of having a gummy smile? Contact our Portland Pearl District, Lake Oswego, or Bellevue dental office to learn more about gum contouring. We’d love to help you achieve the smile of your dreams!

Categorised in: Restorative Dentistry