
Apr
In previous blogs, we’ve discussed tooth contouring, in which we buff away small amounts of outer structure to improve your smile’s esthetics. But what about the gums? For patients in Albuquerque, NM, that suffer from gummy smiles and other cosmetic concerns, we may suggest gum contouring. How does this procedure work, and what benefits will treatment offer?
An excessive amount of gingival tissue could impact your smile’s appearance. You may display too much gum when you smile, or your tooth could appear small and/or uneven. In order to address the esthetics of your smile, we employ contouring to remove the excess tissue carefully and safely. We then reshape the gumline, which improves the appearance of the teeth and your smile as a whole. Following the procedure, we will provide detailed aftercare instructions for the hours and days following treatment. We will also schedule follow up visits to monitor your smile as it heals and to help you avoid any complications.
While we’re on the subject of the gums, you should know that other issues impacting your smile’s appearance could indicate the presence of a serious disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control, half of adults in the United States over the age of 30 suffer from some stage of periodontal disease. Without treatment, the disease could reach the advanced stages and cause adult tooth loss. Warning signs of gum trouble include soreness, redness, swelling, recession, or bleeding when you brush and floss. If one or more of these symptoms applies to your smile, you should see us right away. With treatment, we can reverse gingivitis and manage gum disease, safeguarding your smile’s stability and beauty.
You can also take steps from home to protect your gums from disease and ensure a beautiful smile. For example, brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes and flossing between every tooth before going to bed helps reduce plaque buildup, preventing gum inflammation. You should also avoid smoking or tobacco use and see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning. We will monitor your gums for signs of trouble, and also remove all plaque and tartar from your teeth. Let’s work together to maintain optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. If you have any questions about gum contouring or periodontal disease, then contact our team today.
At Snow Park Dental, Dr. Mark A. Miller and our team employ cosmetic care to address a variety of smile concerns. Contact us today at (505) 596-4479 to schedule a consultation and discuss cosmetic care at our Albuquerque, NM, office. We welcome patients and families from Rio Rancho, Corrales, Edgewood, and all surrounding communities.
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