Contour of Gum Tissues Is Important To A Smile’s Appearance

Posted on Oct 28, 2021 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When people think of their smile, they tend to think primarily of their teeth. Certainly, having white, straight teeth are a major part of a smile’s appearance. In today’s cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers and crowns give an exceptionally natural appearance with excellent longevity and durability. However, the gum line that borders teeth can greatly affect a smile’s appearance, perhaps more than you’ve considered.

People with unflattering smile traits tend to “hold back” when smiling. They may smile with lips only or hold a hand in front of their mouths. Some men even admit to growing a mustache that extends down over the top lip to hide the teeth visible in a smile.

In addition to placing dental implants and treating all stages of gum disease, a Periodontist specializes in the treatment of the soft tissues of the mouth. As an expert in oral tissues, my advanced training enables me to contour gum tissues to provide a natural appearance and healthy seals around the base of teeth.

For several reasons, gum tissues can pull away from the base of teeth. This can occur from gum tissues becoming drier with age or over-zealous tooth brushing. Gums can also loosen their grip around teeth when teeth tilt out of their proper positions.

When the tight seal around the base of teeth is compromised, the tooth becomes more vulnerable to oral bacteria. Darker, sensitive tooth root segments may be exposed. This not only causes sensitivity, these areas become susceptible to bacterial penetration. As an entry point for oral bacteria, the tooth roots and bones that support teeth are more vulnerable to damage as well.

In cases when a tooth breaks near the gum line, a procedure known as crown lengthening may be able to expose enough of the tooth structure so a crown can be placed. This means the natural tooth can be saved rather than require removal. Once a natural tooth is removed, it brings with it a long list of decisions and associated costs.

Although protecting and saving teeth is the priority, gum contouring procedures, such as crown lengthening are also performed to enhance the appearance of a smile. Gum re-contouring is typically referred to as a “gingivectomy”. It is performed to remove the excess gum tissue that arches over the teeth most visible in a smile.

For example, for people who have a “gummy smile,” too much gum tissue is visible above upper teeth in a full smile. A periodontist can use his or her specialized skills to reshape the tissues to provide a more balanced smile line.

In this, crowns are typically placed in addition to having the gum height adjusted. The result? A smile is greatly improved when the gum line is contoured to blend attractively with gum tissue bordering neighboring teeth.

To begin, we numb the gum tissues and carefully trim the excess. As a Periodontist, I take specific measures to ensure a natural looking arch remains over the teeth while preserving the natural points that ‘dip’ between each tooth.

A gingivectomy performed with a dental laser provides our Asheville periodontal office patients with a number of advantages: (1) enhanced comfort; (2) precision lines; (3) minimal or no bleeding; and, (4) faster healing time.

It’s normal to experience some tenderness or swelling after the procedure. However, most patients do fine by applying an ice pack off and on for the first day. In most cases, over-the-counter pain medications are sufficient, however, we make prescription strength options available to ensure comfort during the healing process. Many patients tell us they needed no medication at all.

Healing time depends on each individual and can vary from a few days to a few weeks. The dental laser we use helps to reduce the amount of time needed for healing. For patients who smoke, healing times are longer due to smoking’s drying effect on gum tissues.

Most gingivectomies are followed by porcelain veneers or crowns to give a beautiful, even smile line.

For those who have avoided gum recontouring due to dental fear, we offer several sedation options, including oral and IV sedation. Oral sedation is a pill that helps patients relax. It also has an amnesiac effect, leaving most with little or no memory of treatment afterward.

IV sedation (also known as ‘twilight sleep’) places the patient in a deeper sleep state and erases memory of the procedure. It is administered by a doctor of anesthesiology for optimal comfort and safety. In our Asheville office, anesthesia is overseen by a medical doctor (MD) who is a board certified Anesthesiologist.

With both sedation options, patients are closely monitored with advanced safety equipment throughout treatment. We help patients understand that their fears and concerns are not unusual. Our doctors and staff respect each patient and provide gentle, compassionate care – at every appointment.

Treatment fees depend on the extent of the condition and whether crowns or veneers will be applied following treatment. In either case, beautiful results can occur, helping the individual who once ‘held back’ on smiling confidently.

A healthy smile is a benefit to our overall health. An attractive, confident smile is also an asset when it comes to self-image, helping us to feel good from the inside out! Call 828-274-9440 for a consultation to discuss a gingivectomy and what may be recommended for your specific needs.