Gum Contouring in Alhambra, CA

What is gum contouring?

Dr. Andrew Mutch has numerous patients complaining of teeth that look too “short” due to the disproportionate appearance of teeth and gums, creating what is known as a open “gummy” smile. For this condition, he recommends gum contouring to remove some of the tissue from the patient’s gum line in order to reveal more tooth surfaces and make the teeth appear longer and distinctly more proportionate to the gums.

Is it necessary?

Gum touring is considered a cosmetic procedure and, although it is not medically necessary, most patients choose to get it in order to have their gums reshaped so that their smiles can be improved.

What can I expect from a gum contouring process?

Gum contouring involves trimming away excess gum tissue with a special laser, which also seals the blood vessels instantaneously to keep the bleeding at a minimum. Once sufficient gum tissue has been removed and the teeth appear to be lengthened properly, the gum tissues will heal naturally. In cases where there is an unusually large amount of gum tissues that needs to be removed, the healing process may take longer.

What about recovery?

Immediately after the surgery, patients are advised to avoid unnecessary physical activities as much as possible. It may take the gums a few days or a few weeks to heal completely so the dentist recommends the use of over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort. Steer clear of aspirin because this will aggravate the bleeding. A soft diet is also recommended during the healing process. Eggs, yogurt, pasta, and even ice cream are good suggestions for the first few days after surgery. If you notice any unusual swelling, or excessive bleeding get in touch with your dentist immediately.

What results are expected from gum contouring?

The results obtained with this are phenomenal and the patient will be able to see an immediate change in gum dimension and in the overall appearance of the teeth right after the procedure. The gum line will be noticeably more consistent, which ultimately results in a better-looking smile.

Request an appointment, or contact the office of Dr. Andrew Mutch.