A Quick Primer on Gum Re-Contouring

A practicing dentist in the Albuquerque, New Mexico, area, Roderick Garcia, DMD, has more than 30 years of experience treating both children and adults. In his practice, Roderick Garcia, DMD, offers numerous services, including, gum re-contouring.

For those with an uneven gum line that rests either too low or too high on the teeth, gum re-contouring surgery may be an option. Usually performed in a dental office, gum re-contouring is a procedure in which a qualified dentist uses scalpels, lasers, and radio surgery to alter the gum line to look more cosmetically appealing.

Before the procedure, the dentist may use a pen to mark the new gum line in order to allow the patient to have an idea of how it will be shaped. The dentist will then numb the area with a local anesthetic and conduct the procedure. In some cases,bone around the tooth root may also require removal in order for the gum line to be shaped properly.

After the surgery, the patient may have sore or swollen gums, which can last for upwards of a week. The pain, however, is typically minimal and can be controlled with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. In the days immediately following surgery, patients should be careful to consume soft and less spicy foods and be gentle with the gums when brushing and flossing.