Allsmiles

Cosmetic gum surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can correct two types of conditions – ‘long in the tooth’ and ‘gummy smile’ – that can lead to unwillingness to smile in many cases and even more serious emotional issues such as anxiety and lack of self-esteem.

A ‘gummy smile’ occurs when the length of a person’s teeth appear to be stunted because the gum line has grown upwards and covered the lower portions of the enamel. ‘Gummy smile’ is frequently caused by genetics, but it can also be related to certain medical conditions and has been linked to some blood pressure medications. A second condition, being ‘long in the tooth’, comes most often from age, but can also be from other factors such as insufficient oral hygiene. A person that is ‘long in the tooth’ has teeth that appear to be longer than normal because the gum line has receded to reveal portions of the lower tooth that are generally covered when healthy.

Correcting these conditions usually requires a single visit to a cosmetic dentist or periodontist who can perform the needed procedure in about an hour. Because the decision to undergo cosmetic gum surgery is based entirely on aesthetic considerations, as opposed to dental necessity, most insurance companies will not cover associated treatment costs. The out-of-pocket expense to the patient can vary greatly depending on the dental professional chosen and the extent of the treatment. In general, cosmetic gum surgery procedures run anywhere from $200 to more than $500.

But what do the procedures involve? A cosmetic dentist will generally correct a ‘gummy smile’ through a process called gingival sculpting or gum contouring. While cosmetic gum surgery is relatively painless, most patients will opt for a local anesthetic to dull the discomfort. Traditionally, scalpels were used in gum contouring to trim the excessive gum tissue that covers the teeth causing the problem. While the procedure is fairly quick and painless, technology has made it even easier to undergo with the advent of laser equipment. A laser can perform the same procedure, but with greater precision, less pain and a typically shorter recovery time because the laser seals blood vessels as it cuts. To correct a ‘long in the tooth’ condition, the cosmetic dentist will removes tissue from the roof of the patient’s mouth and grafts it onto the gums in order to cover the lower portions of the exposed tooth to reinforce the connection to the gum line.

Cosmetic gum surgery can add a more youthful appearance and restore confidence and self esteem that may have been lost due to the underlying dental condition whether it is receding or growing gums. Especially in the case of gum contouring, restoring the gum line can reinforce the bond with teeth and increase strength and overall health of the gums.

Potential patients should not take the procedure lightly even though it is rather painless and easy to undergo. Cosmetic gum surgery is still surgery and patients should discuss any potential complications – from other conditions or medications – that could arise. For many people, the overall risks and associated costs will pale in comparison to the benefits received.