Gum Recontouring
What Is Gum Overgrowth And What Causes It?
Gum overgrowth happens when gum tissue encroaches over the teeth. The condition is also known as gingival overgrowth, hypertrophic gingivitis, or gum enlargement.
Gum overgrowth usually affects the front of teeth and is often caused by inflammation. Inflammatory gum overgrowth is generally the result of a build-up of bacterial plaque on the teeth.
Gum overgrowth can also be a side effect of some medical conditions, such as leukaemia or diabetes. Certain medications may also lead to in gum enlargement, including drugs to treat high blood pressure.
Gum Overgrowth Symptoms And Treatments
If you have gum overgrowth, your gums may become red and sore and/or start to bleed. You may also get persistent bad breath.
In some cases, a good routine of brushing and flossing can help to ease gum enlargement. In more severe instances, professional dental attention will be required – if untreated, gum overgrowth can disrupt alignment of teeth and increase the risk of gum disease (periodontitis).
The first line of treatment for gum overgrowth is generally an advanced form of scaling and root planing. In some cases, though, excessive gum tissue may have to be removed surgically.
Laser Surgery For Gum Overgrowth
Although effective, traditional gum surgery – cutting into the gum with a scalpel – can result in an uncomfortable, lengthy recovery.
Thanks to advances in dental technology, precision laser treatment has become a popular surgical option to treat gum enlargement and expose more of the underlying teeth to dramatically transform a smile.
Gum recontouring with a soft-tissue dental laser vaporises inflamed gum tissue, kills bacteria, and immediately seals the area. It also reduces the risk of infection.
Benefits of gum overgrowth laser treatment
Advantages of gum overgrowth laser surgery include:
- No cutting
- Greater precision
- No stitches
- Shorter recovery
- Minimal discomfort, swelling or bleeding
Laser gum recontouring can achieve outstanding results in achieving a balanced, symmetrical gum line, fixing gummy smiles, and make teeth appear longer and/or larger. It can also create optimal space for veneers or crowns to be placed.
Contact Aesthetic Laser Dentistry to find out whether laser gum recontouring could transform your smile. Dr Philip Hand is a leading laser dentist in Australia, and lectures internationally on the use of lasers in dentistry.
How Long Is Recovery For Gum Contouring Surgery?
Even with lasering, your recovery period for a gum contouring surgery can still vary per case. Factors such as the extent of the surgery, your overall health, and your body’s natural healing process matter. Conditions such as sleep apnoea and TMD may cause complications and delay recovery.
The typical recovery period is relatively short for regular teeth contouring and gum lasering. We’ll advise you to rest immediately after the procedure, but after that, there’s no need for an extended downtime. It’s a procedure designed to have minimal impact on your daily life, allowing a swift return to normal activities.
If you experience pain, discomfort, or anything unusual post-surgery, it’s crucial to inform your dentist immediately. These symptoms may require an urgent follow-up check-up to ensure your recovery is on track. At Aesthetic Laser Dentistry, we prioritise your health and comfort, offering support and guidance throughout the recovery process and beyond.
How Much Does Gum Lasering Cost?
The cost of gum contouring surgery varies with each patient. Several factors contribute to this variance, making it essential to consider individual circumstances.
- Treatment Complexity: The intricacy of your specific case, including the amount of gum tissue involved, can affect the cost.
- Procedure Length: Longer, more involved procedures typically incur higher costs.
- Anesthesia and Equipment Used: The type of anesthesia and specific surgical equipment required for your case can also affect the total cost.
- Additional Treatments: If gum contouring is part of a broader dental treatment plan, or you undergo other procedures such as gum depigmentation at the same time, the overall expense may increase.
- Post-Procedure Care: The extent of aftercare, including follow-up visits and any necessary medications, contributes to the overall expense.
It’s essential to consult with dental professionals for accurate pricing. At Aesthetic Laser Dentistry, we provide a free quote for our dental services. Get in touch with us today for a personalised consultation.
Gum Contouring Before And After
Witness the remarkable changes in their smiles, achieved with our precise gum contouring procedures. Envision the beautiful change your smile can achieve. In addition to gum contouring, experience the difference that Aesthetic Laser Dentistry’s teeth contouring and gum lasering has to offer.
FAQ'S
Do gums grow back after gum contouring surgery?
Gums do not typically grow back after gum contouring surgery. This procedure permanently reshapes the gum line by removing excess gum tissue. However, in rare cases, gums might slightly regrow or change shape due to underlying health issues or poor oral hygiene.
Is gum lasering surgery covered by health insurance?
Gum lasering surgery is often considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered by standard health insurance policies. However, some insurance plans might offer partial coverage if the procedure is deemed medically necessary due to oral health issues. It’s best to check with your specific insurance provider for detailed information.
Does gum lasering surgery hurt?
Gum lasering surgery usually involves minimal pain due to local anaesthesia during the procedure. Patients may experience slight discomfort or sensitivity post-surgery, which typically subsides within a few days. The process is generally well-tolerated and less invasive compared to traditional surgical methods.
Can I eat normally after the gum lasering surgery?
After gum lasering surgery, it’s recommended to follow a soft diet for a few days to allow your gums to heal. Avoid hard, spicy, or very hot foods that might irritate the treated area. Most patients can return to their normal diet as soon as they feel comfortable, usually within a few days to a week.
