A gummy smile can lead to insecurity about one's appearance. Patients with gum conditions may be considering gum contouring, which is a cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Dentist Dr Ooi Jing Liang is familiar with various gum and dental treatments. In response to a Human reader's question, he provided details on the process of gum contouring in Singapore. Here's what he had to share.
What is gum contouring?
Gum contouring is the process of removing gum tissue to shape the appearance of teeth. This may be done for patients whose smiles reveal a greater proportion of gum than they would prefer, or a lower proportion of visible teeth than desired.
Occasionally, gum contouring involves the addition of gum tissue in patients who have recessing gums. [1]
Gum contouring is largely an aesthetic procedure
For the most part, gum contouring is performed for aesthetic purposes on patients who desire more ideal proportions for their teeth in relation to the amount of gums being shown.
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It’s also performed for restorative purposes
Gum contouring can also be used as part of the process of restoring a severely broken tooth back to normal function.
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Both procedures can be done by laser or scalpel
Whether it’s for restorative or aesthetic purposes, a gum contouring procedure can be carried out surgically by the scalpel or by dental lasers. This process normally takes about two to four hours.
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Do note that gum contouring typically requires local anaesthetic and may sometimes involve removal of some bone. So plan ahead for a recovery period of a few days.
Gum sensitivity is normal during your recovery period. You will be given pain relief if needed and may have to go on a soft diet for the days after surgery.
Do inform your dentist if you are planning any future dental procedures, so that he or she can discuss what the final result of your dental treatment will look like and how your treatment schedule will go.
This will help you plan your daily schedule around your dental work for minimal interruption.
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