An aesthetically pleasing ratio between the teeth and gum tissue is one of the most often overlooked components of a beautiful smile. For patients with this concern, gum contouring can deliver dramatic cosmetic results after a single treatment at our Mt. Juliet, TN, office. Dr. Shaun Bivens uses advanced dental technology and techniques to transform his patients’ gum lines. The safe and conservative procedure uses a laser to reshape your soft tissue. Gum contouring can address the appearance of small teeth so your entire smile looks brighter and more attractive.
Benefits of Gum Contouring
Gum contouring offers a wide range of cosmetic benefits:
- Short procedure time: Your treatment can be completed in only one visit to our office. The treatment is typically completed in under one hour. Recovery from this procedure is also relatively short. Patients typically recover within a few days or two weeks at most.
- Precise treatment: Our office uses a special laser that allows for precise contouring under the skilled and artful hand of our dentist.
- Improvement of “small” teeth: Many of our patients seek gum contouring as a means to address small teeth. When excess gum tissue overlaps the front of the anterior (front-facing) teeth, it can create the appearance of irregularly shaped and small teeth. By removing small amounts of that excess tissue, Dr. Bivens can create the appearance of longer teeth.
- Minimal bleeding: Lasers have largely replaced scalpels as the tool of choice for gum contouring. Lasers are not only more precise than a scalpel, but they also cauterize the blood vessels. Immediately after your visit, you should notice minimal bleeding and inflammation.
Like other cosmetic procedures, gum contouring can also boost your confidence. Few physical attributes impact our appearance like our smile. A bright, white, symmetrical smile is often seen as a sign of confidence, health, and beauty.
Am I a Candidate?
Most of the individuals who seek gum contouring to enhance their smile are good candidates. First, Dr. Bivens will determine if your cosmetic goals can be met through this procedure.
Candidates often have:
- Small-looking teeth
- Uneven gum line
- A “gummy” smile
Ideal candidates should also be in good oral health. Any periodontitis or milder forms of gum disease will need to be addressed before your candidacy for gum contouring can be established. Some patients may also benefit from combining teeth whitening or porcelain veneers with this contouring procedure.
The Gum Contouring Procedure
Dr. Bivens will begin the procedure by numbing your gums using a local anesthetic. Patients who feel especially anxious might also consider one of two forms of sedation dentistry offered at our Mt. Juliet clinic–nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. Once you are comfortable, Dr. Bivens will use a soft tissue laser to recontour your gumline. Typically, no stitches are necessary by using this technique.
Laser gum contouring can address the appearance of small teeth so your entire smile looks brighter and more attractive.
You may notice moderate soreness for the first few days after surgery. It is generally recommended to only eat foods with soft textures. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to control discomfort.
Contact Us Today
We understand some candidates may have concerns over the affordability of gum contouring, so Dr. Bivens offers CareCredit® financing. To schedule your gum contouring consultation, please contact our office online or call (615) 773-8882. We provide convenient services to patients in Lebanon and surrounding areas.
