All about gum contouring (gum reshaping)
Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping, is a treatment that involves shortening, lengthening or levelling out the gum in order to create a nicer smile and in some cases improved oral hygiene.
Gum contouring is performed by a dentist with special knowledge and experience within the area.
On this page you will find information about gum contouring reviewed by dentist Elisabeth Björkman active at the MinMun cinic, who has extensive experience of aesthetical dentistry.
All you need to know about aesthetical gum contouring/gum reshaping:
- If you are a suitable candidate for gum contouring and what methods exist
- How a gum reshaping is performed and what results you can expect
- Directory with clinics that perform gum contouring
- A forum where you can discuss gum reshaping and the chance to ask a specialist
- Cost information and before and after photos of gum contouring
Who is suitable for gum contouring/gum reshaping?
The appearance of one’s gum depends on different factors such as hereditary disposition, oral hygiene, lifestyle and possible gum diseases (often infection). The treatment is therefore influenced by the underlying cause of the gums appearance.
Provided there is no gum disease and that you tend to your oral hygiene correctly aesthetical gum contouring can be used for the following treatments:
- Removal of excess tissue (very visible gums, small teeth)
- Recreating receded gums (uncovered neck of tooth)
- Levelling out uneven gum distribution
When is an aesthetical gum reshaping not the right solution?
Problems with the gum is sometimes symptoms of a parodontal disease which is an inflammation or infection of the mouth. Paradontal diseases exist in two forms: Gingivitis and Periodontitis.
Gingvitis implies only the gum is affected whereas the more serious form, Periodontitis also includes teeth and dentine. Untreated Periodontitis can lead to serious tooth loss.
If there is a parodontal disease it must be treated before one can decide on the need for cosmetic gum contouring.
Oral hygien is important for the gums
How one tends to one’s oral hygiene also affects the gums appearance. For instance receded gums and visible neck of teeth is often caused by intensive tooth brushing or plaque build up.
Since the gum not only plays an important role in our smile but also for our health it is important to see a dentist should one experience changes in the gums condition.
