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Gum Contouring

The process of gum contouring has been practiced in dentistry for several years. Although it is used for a variety of reasons, most of the time gum contouring is used to resolve a “gummy smile” – in other words, a condition where the patient’s gums extend too far down on the tooth surface. Dr. Bowcutt is pleased to include gum contouring as one of the many services he provides to his Cedar Park, TX, patients. Although the procedure has been around for many years, the process has changed significantly over the past few years when dentists began to use laser technology.

Gum Contouring Bowcutt Dental

Gum Contouring: Then and Now

For many years, gum contouring involved use of invasive scalpels and stitches to remove gum tissue and suture it up afterwards. But more and more dentists are now using laser instruments to perform gum contouring, and there are many reasons why. A laser is not only extremely precise, it also reduces the trauma to the tissue itself. No sutures are required after a laser procedure, and the patient heals much faster than was possible with the old-fashioned method.

Other Reasons for Gum Contouring

Fixing a “gummy smile” is only one use for gum contouring. The process is also used to resolve other uneven gum issues – such as instances when a patient’s gums are too high on the tooth surface, making the tooth appear to be too long. This could be caused by a variety of issues – from genetics to medications to certain health issues, etc. When the gums rest too high on the tooth surface, it can increase the patient’s risk for gum disease and tooth decay.

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