Gummy Smile Correction – Houston, TX
Get Rid of Your Gummy Smile for Good
Dislike your “gummy” smile but don’t know what to do to fix it? Many patients with the same problem assume there are no available treatments that will minimize the appearance of gum tissue. Because much emphasis is placed on cosmetic dentistry and how it can address common tooth problems, it’s easy to believe that when it comes to your gums, there’s not much you can do. Fortunately, that’s not the case at all! Dr. Gregory Palmer and his team are pleased to offer a unique solution known as gummy smile correction in Houston. Also referred to as gum recontouring, this unique treatment uses a soft tissue laser to gently remove excess tissue and leave you with a healthy, showstopping smile. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and find out what steps you can take to say “so long” to your gummy smile.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Knowing why you have an overgrowth of gum tissue can be troubling; however, there are a few reasons why this common problem could be happening to you:
- You are taking certain medications that are known for causing additional gum tissue
- Your upper lip moves more dramatically
- Your teeth have not erupted correctly
- You naturally have an overgrowth of gum tissue that causes your teeth to appear short or “stubby”
What is Gum Recontouring?
Gum recontouring is another term used to describe gummy smile correction. Designed to reduce the amount of gum tissue surrounding your teeth, it is an ideal solution for anyone who feels self-conscious about their short teeth and wants to change their appearance. With the help of a soft tissue laser, Dr. Palmer and our team can reshape your gum line to ensure a more even look and reduce your potential risk for gum disease, which is common among individuals living with an overgrowth of soft oral tissue.
One of the great aspects of using a soft tissue laser is that it is quick and easy to use. It also cauterizes the tissue as it moves along, which reduces bleeding and minimizes swelling. You will also feel no pain throughout the procedure because of the local anesthesia you will receive and an extremely precise laser that is used.
Who is a Good Candidate?
The only way to know if you are a qualified candidate for gummy smile correction is to schedule a consultation with your cosmetic dentist in Houston. This will allow our team to examine your smile in its entirety (i.e., teeth, gums, and facial structure). Once we have all the necessary information and images, we will then decide if you can move forward with gum recontouring treatment.
If you are living with any of the following scenarios, you will most likely be eligible for gum recontouring:
- Asymmetrical gums
- Short or “stubby” teeth
- An overgrowth of gum tissue causing a “gummy” smile
- You have minimal tooth structure available and need a dental crown to repair your damaged tooth
What is the Process?
On the day of your gummy smile correction, Dr. Palmer will administer local anesthesia to help you remain pain-free throughout your procedure. If necessary, you may also inquire about sedation; however, a local anesthetic is usually enough. With the help of a soft tissue laser, he will begin to move the handheld device along your gum line, removing any excess tissue and reshaping it as he goes. The accuracy and precision of the laser make the process much easier to complete and minimizes your risk for infection. Unlike traditional scalpel and sutures that can cause much bleeding and swelling, the use of a soft tissue laser will not. Instead, it will cauterize the area to ensure a swifter and more successful healing process.
It is normal to experience some minor soreness and discomfort in the few days following your procedure; however, an over-the-counter pain reliever can help. Also, it’s best if you eat soft foods in the beginning and be extremely careful while practicing good oral hygiene habits at home.