Can a Smile Makeover Improve the Shape of My Gums?
Wondering whether a smile makeover can improve the shape of gums as well as improve the brightness and shape of teeth? Read on to learn more. There are several procedures dentists offer as a part of a smile makeover to address cosmetic imperfections with the shape of gums.
How a smile makeover can improve the shape of gums
A smile makeover is designed to address cosmetic imperfections. This often refers to correcting dental imperfections, such as stains and uneven teeth. However, many patients also seek an improvement in how their gums look and wish to address issues such as a “gummy smile,” in addition to correcting concerns with their teeth.
Gum contouring for improving gum shape
Gum contouring is one of the most commonly recommended solutions for addressing concerns with gum shape during a smile makeover. Gum contouring involves removing excess gum tissue and possibly grafting new tissue to the gums to achieve the desired gum shape. This procedure is most often used to address a smile that reveals too much of the gums and not enough of the crowns of teeth.
When gum contouring is recommended
Gum contouring is ideal for individuals who are not confident in the way their gums look while they smile. This could be due to a gummy smile, gums that are uneven, or gums that do not show at all while smiling. Gum contouring is a personalized treatment and is conducted in a manner that allows the patient to achieve the specific cosmetic goals they have for their smile makeover.
A gum graft vs. gum contouring: What is the difference?
Gum grafting and gum contouring are similar, but there are certain differences to keep in mind. A gum graft procedure is used less for cosmetic purposes and involves adding gum tissue primarily after gum recession occurs as a result of gum disease. Gum contouring, however, has more of a cosmetic purpose and primarily involves trimming away excess gum tissue.
Additional treatments to consider for a smile makeover
In addition to addressing the shape of gums, many patients also want to improve the shape, shade, and alignment of their teeth. Additional services to consider along with gum contouring for a smile makeover include dental fillings, crowns, veneers, composite bonding, and professional teeth whitening. Orthodontic treatment may be an option for individuals with misaligned teeth or jaw, as well.
Dental fillings
Dental fillings are a way to address dental cavities, which are holes that form in the enamel (the outermost layer of the tooth). Specifically, tooth-colored fillings are a great option to include in a smile makeover if the patient has cavities.
Dental crowns
Dental crowns, also called dental caps, are restorations that are placed over a tooth and encapsulate the tooth on all sides. It is used most often to address damaged or weakened premolars and molars. Ceramic crowns, in particular, offer aesthetic benefits and are indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Dental veneers
Dental veneers are used more for front teeth that are highly visible, and they can address chips, cracks, teeth stains, and more. Veneers are also commonly used to address misshapen teeth, create a more symmetrical smile (e.g., lengthening short teeth), and fill in gaps between teeth. These thin shells are made of porcelain material and are the same shade as natural teeth.
Composite bonding
Composite bonding serves a similar purpose as dental veneers, although there are special advantages this cosmetic restoration offers that veneers do not, such as a more affordable cost, quicker treatment, and no need for an alteration of the dental enamel (in many cases).
Professional teeth whitening
Professional teeth whitening is perhaps the most common type of cosmetic dentistry procedure. It is usually performed at the end of a smile makeover after the patient has addressed all oral health concerns.
What to expect during a smile makeover consultation
The consultation visit offers an opportunity for the patient and the dentist to discuss goals and all available treatment options. From there, they can put together a smile makeover treatment plan. There are no treatments performed during the smile makeover consultation unless the patient elects for treatment on the same day.
Ready to schedule your appointment?
Our dental practice offers smile makeover treatments and personalizes treatment plans for every patient. If you would like to learn more and personalize your own smile makeover treatment plan, then contact us today to schedule a visit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.riversdentistry.com or call Rivers Family Dentistry at (979) 710-2216 for an appointment in our Bryan office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Smile Makeover in Bryan, TX.
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