Gum Recontouring – Odessa, TX

Your teeth may be the primary focus of your smile, but your gums affect its overall appearance quite a bit. Whether from genetics or some other factor, you may have a “gummy smile” or uneven gums that don’t give you the aesthetics you’re after. As a cosmetic dentist in Odessa, Dr. Steve Cobb offers gum recontouring to make your gums more in proportion to your teeth. And with advanced technology like our soft tissue laser, this procedure is faster and more comfortable than ever. It can also be used in preparation for procedures such as veneers, crowns, or bridges, in which case it’s called crown lengthening. If you have any cosmetic concerns about your gums, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Correcting the problem is easier than you think!  

What Is Gum Recontouring?

Gum recontouring is a procedure that removes excess gum tissue and reshapes the way your gums fit around your teeth. By making your teeth appear longer and more even, your smile will have a much better overall appearance.

The Benefits of Using a Soft Tissue Laser for Gum Recontouring

Traditionally, gum recontouring was done using a scalpel to remove excess tissue before putting stitches in place. With a soft tissue laser, the procedure involves significantly less bleeding and discomfort as well as faster healing. Here are the basic steps involved:

• Cobb will start by numbing the area to make sure you stay comfortable.
• Then he’ll use a soft tissue laser to direct a concentrated beam of light and remove any unwanted tissue. With this method, stitches aren’t required.
• Lastly, he’ll discuss any post-operative instructions, including how to keep the area clean, which foods to avoid, and possibly the use of an antibacterial mouthwash.

Are You a Good Candidate For Gum Recontouring?

Gum recontouring works beautifully for many people. But since everyone is unique, the first step is a consultation with Dr. Cobb. He’ll start by doing an exam to make sure you have reasonably good oral and overall health and that you’ll heal properly after the procedure.

With that said, gum recontouring is usually an excellent solution for:

• Teeth that appear short – After excess gum tissue is removed, your teeth will appear longer and more in proportion to your gums. 
• Uneven gums – Once the gums have been reshaped, your teeth will look much more symmetrical and uniform in appearance.

If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in Odessa to help your teeth and gums look their best, contact us today to schedule a consultation!