Healing After Gum Contouring
The healing and recovery time following a gum contouring procedure will depend on the extent of the procedure, as well as your own self-control when it comes to following the instructions from your dentist when going home. First, let us identify why you might consider the procedure, the simple gum contouring procedure itself, and possible precautions to observe during your healing process.
What is a Gummy Smile
When you smile naturally, you should be able to see about two to three millimeters of soft gum tissue. If the amount of soft tissue is more, around four millimeters or above, the proportion of your gums to teeth becomes visually out of balance. It might leave you with a negative perception because your teeth can appear short and stubby. Your smile is a unique and invaluable asset to you, often influencing your personality and your mental state. A smile is the basic foundation for your self-confidence and self-esteem. If you do not like your smile, you could begin to change your daily interactions with your personal and professional circles. Sometimes this gum-to-teeth imbalance is genetic, while other times it can be the result of decay or prescriptions.
The Gum Contouring Procedure
A quite simple cosmetic process, gingival recontouring addresses soft tissue that can be easily removed, immediately rectifying the tooth-to-tissue ratio. The tissue to be corrected will be numbed first with a local anesthetic. Then the dentist or periodontist will use a surgical scalpel or a dental laser to remove the unwanted tissue. The laser will also cauterize the tissue as it is cut, minimizing bleeding. The scalpel will result in some minor bleeding.
The Healing Process after Gum Contouring
Your healing process is contingent on the amount of tissue removed and the extent of the procedure. If a laser is used, the tissue is immediately cauterized during the procedure, minimizing any blood loss. If a scalpel is used, you might have some minor scabbing. Either way, you can expect some minor swelling and discomfort initially.
The most practical recommendation is to use a saline rinse for a few days, to avoid smoking and alcohol, and to also consider a soft foods diet. The gum tissue will heal quickly, within ten days, leaving you with a beautifully refined smile. You will also be given specific instructions on how to brush your teeth and gums during your healing process. Once your soft tissue has healed, the health industry encourages brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. The dental industry also suggests you floss at least once a day to clean those tough-to-reach areas between your teeth. If you practice and maintain these strong at-home oral hygiene habits and complement your efforts with regular preventative examinations with your dentist twice a year, you will make sure that you keep your new smile as the invaluable asset it is. Professional cleaning after each exam is extremely beneficial to make sure your teeth and gums remain healthy. Enjoy your new smile, whether it is with your personal encounters or professional opportunities.