I’m wondering if it’s safe to find an affordable dentist to do something about my gummy smile. My gums are so long that they make my teeth look tiny like baby teeth. I’m sure there is something that can be done to make my teeth look longer or make my gums look shorter. The problem is my budget. Is this something an affordable dentist can help me with? Thanks – Bev
Bev – You can find an affordable dentist who offers financing or payment plans so the dental treatment will work with our budget.
What Will an Affordable Dentist Do for a Gummy Smile?
Excessive gum tissue can dominate teeth and make them look smaller than they actually are.
Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy (commonly referred to as a gum lift) is a surgical procedure used by dentists to remove gum tissue around your teeth.
Gingivoplasty
Gingivoplasty is the process of shaping gum tissue around your teeth. A gum lift can remove excess gum tissue and lengthen the look of your teeth. The contouring, or shaping, of the gum tissue enhances the look of your gums around your teeth.
What Should You Expect?
- The procedures can be performed using electrosurgical tools, lasers or dental burs.
- Depending on the amount of gum tissue to be removed, the gum lift procedure can take several minutes to over an hour.
- Gum contouring is usually completed in several minutes.
- Healing time varies from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how extensive the procedure is.
Gum tissue can be removed and shaped for more than cosmetic reasons. Excessive gum tissue around the teeth can make it more difficult to keep teeth and gums free from plaque-producing food debris. Inadequate cleaning can lead to gum disease. So it’s a good idea to get an examination and learn about your treatment options.
Schedule consultations with at least two experienced cosmetic dentists, and compare your options. Don’t pick a dentist just because he or she is the most affordable. Take time to do some research to learn about the dentist’s training and experience—particularly with gum contouring. Ask the dentist how many cases like your he or she has completed.
This post is sponsored by affordable Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.