Several factors go into creating the perfect smile. Some individuals have smiles that show more gum tissue than they would like to see. For these individuals, gum contouring may be the answer to create the smile they desire.

When you have excess gum tissue, your teeth may seem smaller. They can also look stubby. Gum contouring changes the appearance of your teeth. More tooth structure shows, causing the teeth to look longer. Gum contouring changes the balance of your smile and can make it look more appealing.

Gum Contouring: Cosmetic or Oral Health Treatment?

When there is not an underlying oral health issue involved, gum contouring is usually labeled as a cosmetic procedure. As such, it is seen as an elective procedure for insurance purposes. Cosmetic gum contouring is performed to correct uneven gums or an overly gummy appearance. The contouring helps to produce a more balanced and pleasing look for your smile. There are circumstances under which gum contouring is considered a necessary part of establishing oral health.

Periodontal disease often requires gum contouring when the gum tissue is diseased. In these cases, the procedure is used to do reconstructive work. Contouring helps with the regeneration of gum tissue, which is necessary to restore oral health. The contouring procedure reduces the size of pockets that develop as a function of gum disease. After contouring, healthy gum tissue can regenerate.

Causes of Excessive Gum Tissue

Periodontal disease can cause swelling and redness of gum tissue, but that is not the only source of excessive gum tissue. Certain medical conditions, as well as some prescription drugs, can create excessive gum tissue. Genetic factors must also be considered in some cases.

Where there is an excessive amount of gum tissue, plaque buildup is more likely to occur. This creates an oral environment for the proliferation of harmful bacteria that promotes tooth decay and gum disease. Gum contouring helps eliminate the problem of excessive gum tissue and is effective in treating periodontal disease.

Gum contouring is a permanent procedure. Gum tissue is not regenerative, even though some medical conditions or medications cause gum overgrowth. Excessive gum tissue can cause dental problems as well as impact your smile. Contact Barrera Advanced Dentistry to schedule a consultation appointment to discuss your issues with excessive gum tissue. Gum contouring may be just what you need to improve your smile.

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