New Patients (516) 253-6873

Current Patients (516) 484-6600

14 Glen Cove Road Roslyn Heights, NY 11577

Gum Contouring Roslyn Heights, NY

Gum ContouringAn Overview

The shape of your gums can impact the appearance and health of your smile. Gums that are receding due to disease can expose sensitive tooth roots over time, increasing your risk of decay. A “gummy smile”, often the result of genetics, can make the teeth appear short and lower your smile confidence.

Dr. Sousa performs gum contouring or gum reshaping in our Roslyn Heights dental office to improve both aesthetics and oral health. Gum contouring is a cosmetic dentistry service that Dr. Sousa provides to patients with gum recession caused by disease. A highly trained dentist with years of experience, Dr. Sousa works with patients on an individual basis to create a natural-looking gumline that complements your appearance and supports healthy teeth.

Gum reshaping can also be part of periodontal therapy when gum disease is present, removing damaged tissue and stimulating healing to restore health.

Gum Lift

Reshaping a gummy smile is known as a “gum lift”, effectively lifting the gum line to reveal more of the tooth surface. Also called crown lengthening, Dr. Sousa offers gum lifts, which can often be completed during a single visit.

Gum Contouring What to Expect

Dr. Sousa will meet with you to evaluate the health and condition of the gums. Digital photography is often used during treatment planning to address cosmetic concerns. He will perform a computerized smile analysis using images of your smile, making corrections on the computer to preview potential results.

Then the procedure is performed on a model of the teeth to ensure that what was created in the computer can actually be done. A treatment plan is then made, and measurements are taken to ensure accuracy and a predictable result.

Dr. Sousa uses advanced techniques to reshape gum tissue, including the pinhole gum lift procedure for treating gum recession. All aspects of your treatment will be discussed during a consultation, including dental sedation options for your comfort.

In many cases, your procedure can be completed in one visit with a two-week follow-up to monitor results. If sutures were placed, we will remove them at the appropriate time. Post-treatment instructions often include a soft diet for several days, over-the-counter NSAID pain medication as needed, and antibacterial rinses.

Gummy Smile: Before & After

Gum Contouring FAQs

Is gum contouring permanent?

Yes, gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure with permanent results. The results are long-term and the gums will not grow back. This means you will not have to have it redone or have touch-ups every so often.

Will my dental insurance cover gum contouring?

Gum contouring is generally considered an elective, cosmetic procedure. This means a majority of the time it is not medically necessary. However, if you suffer from gum disease and all other treatments are unsuccessful, then Dr. Sousa may recommend this treatment. In these cases, your dental insurance may cover a portion of it since it is medically necessary.

What is the pinhole gum lift procedure?

This procedure is a surgical technique used to treat gum recession. Instead of grafting using skin from other areas of the mouth to correct recessed gums, Dr. Sousa will use this technique. It involves creating tiny holes in the gum tissues essentially letting him stretch it out to recover the tooth roots. Once the gums are placed in their desired position, a collagen membrane is placed over the small holes to induce healing.

Is gum contouring painful?

Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that is generally not painful. The dentist will usually numb the area with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure. You can manage any discomfort or sensitivity with over-the-counter pain relievers. In most cases, the process is relatively quick, and the recovery period should be brief.

Do dentists do gum contouring?

Yes, dentists do perform gum contouring. This cosmetic dental procedure can reduce a “gummy” smile, change the shape of the gum line, even out asymmetrical gums, or remove excess gum tissue. Your cosmetic dentist will evaluate your smile and discuss treatment options before proceeding.

Is gum contouring safe?

Yes. Gum contouring is safe when a qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist performs it. It is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves reshaping or removing excess gum tissue to improve the appearance of the teeth and gums. While there may be some temporary side effects such as mild discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity, the risks and potential complications are minimal and can be minimized by following proper pre-operative and post-operative care instructions.