An uneven gum line or excessive gum tissue that obscures the appearance of your teeth can detract from an otherwise beautiful smile. Often, this can make your teeth look small or unevenly shaped, even when they are beautiful and healthy. Fortunately this condition, often referred to as a gummy smile, can easily be corrected with gum recontouring.
Dr. John Phelps can perform gum recontouring to remove excess gum tissue and even out your gum line. This will eliminate the appearance of a gummy smile and ensure your teeth are framed properly by your gum tissue. A soft tissue laser is used to safely and efficiently reshape your gum line, and the procedure can be completed in just one short visit to our Indianapolis dental office.
Due to the use of state-of-the-art soft tissue lasers, the recovery process after gum recontouring is rather short and easy. Dr. Phelps will recommend that you get plenty of rest on the day of your surgery, but you should be able to resume normal activities the next day. While it may take several days or in some cases a few weeks for your gums to fully heal, you should only experience minimal discomfort during the healing process.
Dr. Phelps recommends the following tips to facilitate the best possible recovery after gum recontouring:
- Take over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol or ibuprofen as needed to manage discomfort. Make sure to avoid products containing aspirin since they may increase the likelihood of bleeding.
- During the first few days of your recovery, eat soft foods such as yogurt, eggs, cottage cheese, pasta and ice cream. Make sure to avoid foods that are spicy or that contain seeds until your gums have fully healed.
- Be very gentle when brushing and flossing for the first few weeks after your procedure. Dr. Phelps will provide you with specific instructions regarding the best way to brush during your recovery.
Once your gums have fully healed, you will be able to resume eating all of your favorite foods and most importantly, you will enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile.
To learn more about your options for treating a gummy smile, please contact Dr. John Phelps using the form on this page or call 317-793-6133 today. We serve patients in the Indianapolis, Indiana area.
