Your Choice For Specialized Periodontal Treatment
As a Harvard University and Columbia University trained periodontist in Marin County, CA, Dr. Michael Seda offers a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services to Marin County and San Francisco, CA. We treat referred and non-referred patients in a peaceful, modern setting, and are committed to partnering with all of our patients throughout their treatment. We are committed to exceeding expectations, and provide the highest level of dental care, to achieve the ultimate goal of optimal oral health for all of our patients
Gingival Contouring for Repairing Gummy Smiles
Have you ever felt embarrassed or self-conscious about your smile because it shows more gum than teeth? If so, you may have what is commonly referred to as a “gummy smile.” Fortunately, this can be treated with a gingival contouring appointment. We are well-versed and equipped to perform this painless, swift, and easy procedure and are determined to help you reach a less “gummy smile” so you can smile with confidence.
Gingival contouring is not just used to fix a gummy smile. It can be used for other dental cosmetic concerns, including reducing the size of your swollen gums or making your gumline more regular and uniform.
At Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, we offer a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services. We treat referred and non-referred patients in a peaceful, modern setting, and are committed to partnering with all our patients throughout their treatment. We are committed to exceeding expectations and providing the highest level of dental care to achieve the ultimate goal of optimal oral health for all of our patients.
If you are scheduled for gingival contouring, or if you have any questions about the procedure, please contact our staff who will be happy to answer any questions or help you set up an appointment.
Reviews About Periodontics
Contact Marin Contemporary Perio & Implant Specialists
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form.
Gum Recession
The development of a periodontal disease is the most common reason for gum recession to occur, but there are a variety of factors that can play a role in causing gums to recede, including the following:
- Genetic predisposition
- Underlying health conditions
- Excessive Brushing
- Malocclusion (improper bite)
Procedure
First, your periodontist will start the gingival recontouring procedure by using a local anesthetic to numb and desensitize your gum tissue so that you feel no pain. When your gums are adequately numbed, your periodontist will take a surgical blade or a laser and remove the excess gum tissue with it. During the procedure you will feel no pain, but your gums may be tender and swollen after the recountouring procedure.
Contouring Candidates
At your initial consultation with your dentist, your periodontist will let you know if you have gum disease or any other oral health complication. Most people want to have gingival contouring because they either want their smile to look better aesthetically, or because they have underlying dental health issues. If you do, in fact, have gum disease, your dentist will educate you about your options for treating the disease successfully.
Caring for Gingival Contouring
In order to facilitate the healing process following your gingival contouring procedure, it is common to experience pain or swelling in your gums following this procedure. If you do have swelling, use ice packs for 20 minute increments with a 20 minute break in between. This type of care generally makes the swelling subside quicker. Your dentist may also prescribe pain medication or antibiotics during your recovery.
It is also a good idea to avoid hard foods and be very gentle when you brush. If you do not already have one, you may want to consider purchasing a soft bristle toothbrush. If you take these precautions, your gums should heal within a few days.
After you have fully recovered, the most important thing you can do following your gingival contouring procedure is to continue to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice daily and for at least two minutes each time and continue flossing regularly.
Along with these important at home care practices, the best thing you can do to continue enjoying your healthy smile is to schedule regular visits every six months. During these routine checkups, your periodontist can conduct deep cleanings and monitor the overall state of your oral health, catching issues before they develop. By maintaining these habits, you will be well on your way to preventing additional issues from developing in the future.
Gum Contouring Costs
Like most dental procedures, the final cost will be determined by a variety of factors, such as the severity of your case, where you are located geographically, and what type of insurance plan you currently have. Our practice does accept most dental insurance programs, including non-managed care, indemnity (traditional), and PPO out-of-network.Our staff will be happy to submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so you can determine what your benefits will be. Or, if you are not currently covered by insurance or have concerns about the final cost, our staff will be happy to discuss other financial arrangements with you.
High Quality Periodontal Care You Can Trust
When you come to Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, you can expect a friendly and professional dental team. Dr. Seda will listen carefully to your dental goals and provide a custom treatment plan that works with your budget and needs. We want you to fall in love with your smile again, so all our services are performed with the patient in mind. We want you to feel comfortable in the dental chair, and to feel confident in our treatment.
At Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, we aim to provide cutting edge perio and implant solutions in a comfortable and relaxed environment, where patients feel we put them first. Scheduling an appointment for gingival contouring is the first step towards being confident in your smile once again. To schedule an appointment, please contact us today at (415) 482-9901.