While many people focus on brushing and flossing their teeth, they neglect their gums. And gums are important because they provide the foundation within which teeth reside. While brushing their teeth, patients should also gently brush their gum to make sure they stay healthy and strong. If gums are neglected, they can become red and irritated and gingivitis can set in, which is the first stage of periodontal disease. Once periodontal disease progresses beyond gingivitis it is impossible to reverse or to cure.
Most people consider gum contouring when their teeth do not appear as they would like. In some cases, the gums cover far too much of the tooth and give them what is called a gummy smile. In other situations, the gums do not cover enough of the tooth exposing the softer material beneath the enamel. When there is too much gum tissue, it can be removed to reveal more of the tooth surface and give the patient a more balanced smile.
When is Gum Contouring Not Considered Cosmetic in Nature?
If there are underlying medical conditions requiring gum reshaping then it is considered a medical procedure. One underlying condition is gum disease. Gum reshaping can add gum tissue to those areas that have suffered from the periodontal disease and restore gums so the continued health of gums and teeth can remain high. The reshaped gums will remain tight around the base of the teeth protecting them from possible infection and ensure the bone structure beneath remains strong my maintaining proper pressure.
When adding gum tissue for the contouring procedure they will generally take a graft from the roof of the mouth and place it over the area in need of addition tissue. The body combines the two tissues over time and adds to the overall amount of tissue. Recovery times vary and the procedure can be done in a single visit. Contact us to know more.
While many people focus on brushing and flossing their teeth, they neglect their gums. And gums are important because they provide the foundation within which teeth reside. While brushing their teeth, patients should also gently brush their gum to make sure they stay healthy and strong. If gums are neglected, they can become red and irritated and gingivitis can set in, which is the first stage of periodontal disease. Once periodontal disease progresses beyond gingivitis it is impossible to reverse or to cure.