Gum Contouring

WHAT IS GUM CONTOURING?

A “gummy smile” occurs when the top part of the tooth is covered by extra gum tissue. At R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A., gum contouring is performed to improve your smile by eliminating the extra soft tissue and exposing more of the tooth. Gum contouring can give you a more attractive smile, as well as improve your oral health by reducing areas where bacteria often hides, reducing your chances of gum disease, cavities, and infections. Schedule a consultation with dentist Dr. Asher Henegar at our office in Colorado Springs, CO to get more information about gum contouring.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM GUM CONTOURING

Gum contouring is done in our office using a numbing cream or local anesthesia; however, we do offer sedation options if you have anxiety or fears about having dental work performed. Prior to the treatment, your teeth and gums will be professionally cleaned and dried. Dr. Henegar will then use the state-of-the-art light diode laser to remove excess gum tissue to sculpt your gumline for a balanced appearance. The laser tool seals the tissue for minimal bleeding throughout the treatment. As soon as your gums are in the right shape, Dr. Henegar will rinse your mouth and show you the results. Usually, the entire procedure will be complete in one appointment. When your treatment is complete, Dr. Henegar will go over aftercare instructions. He may write a prescription for antibiotic medication if signs of infection were noticed in the procedure. Your gums may be red for a few weeks; however, if you follow a proper home oral care routine of daily brushing and flossing, your gums will quickly return to normal. You should continue to schedule yearly dental exams at our Colorado Springs, CO office so Dr. Henegar can monitor the health of your gums and the rest of your mouth.

GUM CONTOURING FAQ

How much does gum contouring cost?

The exact cost of gum contouring will vary based on the number of teeth being treated. During your consultation, we’ll listen to your goals and concerns before conducting an in-depth analysis of your teeth. At this point, we’ll create a custom treatment plan and offer a detailed cost estimate.

Is gum contouring covered by insurance?

Usually, gum contouring is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, in certain cases, such as when a patient needs pocket reduction surgery, gum contouring may be deemed medically necessary, making it eligible to be covered by dental insurance.

Is gum contouring permanent?

Gum tissue does not regrow, making this procedure permanent. However, it is important to remember to take care of your teeth and gums to prevent further damage.

CONTOURING A GORGEOUS SMILE

Gum contouring at R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A. is a wonderful procedure for several reasons — it will enhance the overall appearance of your smile and reduce your risk of oral disease, like gingivitis. If you want to enhance your smile or improve your oral health, this cosmetic procedure might be a great treatment for you. While it’s not often covered under insurance, many of our patients feel the expense is worth it. Our friendly office staff is available to help you understand different payment options, as well as find medical financing. If you would like to get more information about this treatment, contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO to book your consultation with Dr. Henegar.