Do You Have a “Gummy” Smile? Find Out If You’re a Candidate for Gum Recontouring

by | Sep 21, 2020 | General Dentistry

young man with gummy smile who needs gum recontouring in West Bloomfield

Most of the time, when we imagine a beautiful smile, we picture someone with bright, perfectly aligned teeth. However, your teeth aren’t the only contributing factor to a healthy, gorgeous smile. Having a straight, symmetrical gumline is equally important. If your gumline is uneven, or too much gum tissue is exposed when you grin, you may have been told that you have a “gummy” smile. Luckily, there’s an easy solution to this problem: a cosmetic dentistry procedure called gum recontouring in West Bloomfield. Keep reading to find out whether this treatment is right for you.

What Is Gum Recontouring?

Gum recontouring is a pretty straightforward procedure. Using highly specialized and precise instruments, your dentist can remove excess gum tissue and even out your gumline. Your dentist can even use local anesthetic or sedation to ensure you’re comfortable and don’t feel any pain during the process. While your mouth may be slightly sore for the next few days, it will be worth it to see a beautiful, symmetrical smile in the mirror.

Are You a Candidate for Gum Recontouring?

The best way to find out whether you could benefit from gum recontouring is to attend a consultation with your dentist. However, in order to be considered a qualified candidate for this treatment, one or more of the following issues should be present:

  • Uneven gumline
  • Gums that protrude more than they “should,” creating a gummy smile
  • Short or “stubby” teeth
  • A damaged tooth that requires a dental crown that cannot be placed because of excess gum tissue

Once your dentist has determined that gum recontouring is right for you, you can go ahead and schedule the appointment. Because this procedure is relatively simple, it can usually be completed in one quick visit.

The Benefits Are More Than Just Cosmetic

There’s nothing like the confidence boost you get after undergoing a cosmetic dental procedure like gum recontouring. When you feel happier with your appearance, it can improve your personal life as well as your professional one.

However, gum recontouring offers more than aesthetic benefits. It might help protect you against gum disease. An uneven gumline can make it easier for bacteria to work their way underneath your gum tissue and cause infection. Like straight teeth, a straight gumline is easier to keep clean and disease-free with daily brushing and flossing.

Are you ready to have a prettier, healthier smile by evening out your gumline? Call your dentist today to find out if you’re a good candidate for gum recontouring!

About the Author

Dr. Robert G. Nakisher is a general and cosmetic dentist in West Bloomfield, MI who obtained his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1992 from the University of Michigan. He has since earned a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction that only 6% of general dentists in the United States currently have. Because of the advanced training required to achieve this, he is able to provide a variety of services, including gum recontouring. To learn more about this procedure, contact LakeView Family Dental at 248-363-3304.