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Is Gum Contouring Right for You? Atlanta, GA
Dental Model Atlanta GA

The perfect smile is created when many factors fall into place. While the condition of your teeth and gums are two of the highlights of your smile, there are other factors as well. The size of your teeth and the amount of gum tissue that shows when you smile also affect the appearance of your smile. Too much gum tissue can make your teeth look small and stubby. Your smile may seem unbalanced and to “gummy.” This look can be altered with gum contouring.

An Effective Cosmetic Procedure for Uneven Gums

Gum contouring is not considered a necessary procedure by itself. When performed as an aesthetic smile improvement, it is an elective cosmetic procedure. Gum contouring can also be part of required periodontal procedures. It is used to lengthen the crowns of teeth, reduce pockets and for regenerative procedures. When used to recontour gum recession or trim overgrown gum tissue that is covering part of the tooth crown, the procedure is not considered cosmetic.

The Causes of Uneven Gums

Gums that are too high or too low can be caused by a few different conditions. Genetics play a role for some people. Others may have a health condition that can cause gum overgrowth. Sometimes this condition is a result of certain prescription drugs.

In the case of gum recession, your teeth may look too long. Gum recession occurs when the gums shrink and expose more of the root of the tooth. Gum recession should be addressed because it can lead to dental decay. It can also lead to the loss of teeth. In many instances, gum recession occurs as a symptom of periodontal disease. Advanced gum disease causes deterioration of gum tissue and bone.

The Procedure

Gum contouring is performed to expose more of the tooth so teeth that seem stubby and short can look longer and more in proportion. Gum contouring is a surgical procedure. The dentist will use a laser or another type of cutting device to remove some of the gum tissue to expose more of the tooth enamel. This procedure usually does not take a long time. Most patients have their gum contouring completed in one visit.

Local anesthetic is used to numb the gums so the discomfort involved is minimal or non-existent. After the procedure, you may experience some soreness in the area that was contoured. With diligent home care, your gums should heal quickly.

When gum contouring is necessary to help repair periodontal damage, there may also be other work involved. In some cases, the damage caused by periodontal disease may require removal of damaged bone tissue. When this is the case, more extensive anesthesia may be required. Healing from a more involved procedure will also take a longer time.

The Aesthetic Benefits of Gum Contouring

Benefits of gum contouring include a more aesthetically pleasing smile. When teeth that formerly appeared short and stubby have more enamel exposed, they look longer. The gums look more even and the result is a better-looking smile.

Posted on behalf of Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta

200 Galleria Pkwy SE, Suite 1830
Atlanta, GA 30339

Phone: (770) 955-0550

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What Our Patients Says
Aesthetic and Implant Dentistry of Atlanta

4.9 / 5

Based on 136 reviews

Dr. Zelby was recommended to me by both my dentist and periodontist. I could not agree more. the kindness, caring, and professionalism that I experienced at Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta is above and beyond. I highly recommend Dr. Zelby, his assistants, and the staff. I couldn't be happier with my new teeth and wish I had done this years ago! five stars to you guys

Catherine W.

Everything about my experience was enjoyable. I felt like the practice used all of the most advanced and best technology out there which gave me a wonderful feeling of confidence. They were very professional and straight forward and I have never had a better dentistry experience. I'd highly recommend checking them out if you're looking for a new dentist. They're friendly and efficient and they really do know what they're doing there.

Meghan D.

Dr Zelby has been my dentist now for almost 17 years. Not only is he a really nice person, his dentistry is completely top notch. If you need any restorations, I don't think that there is another place to even consider. You'll be amazed with his work!

Brian S.

Dr. Levine was great, and Dr. Zelby stopped by and answered some questions I had about sheering forces on enamel. They were both very friendly, and the hygenist (whose name I forget, unfortunately) gave one of the most thorough cleanings I've ever had. The office was clean, the devices all seem shiny and well maintained, and overall it was a great experience

Benjamin S.

After going to another dentist, doctor Zelby was able to fix my front two teeth so that the front two teeth were back to the same length and color. I'm so thankful he was able to make them look normal again. Dr. Zelby and his staff are so pleasant to be around as well. I highly recommend this office if you have a major problem with your teeth that need to be fixed. He can get it done and he will make sure you are happy.

Carrie G.

I had been going to the same dentist for many years and switched to Aesthetic and Implant recently. My experience with Dr Levine was incredible. I cannot be happier with the decision I made. The cleaning and other services I received were well above and beyond any other I have ever had. Highly recommend this practice to everyone!

Matthew G.

Couldn't be happier! Absolutely worth the travel time. Dr Zelby is without doubt the best - caring, knowledgeable, reassuring and very professional. Couldn't ask for better dentistry. Staff also very competent and professional. Beautiful, clean environment

Diane W.

Megan is the best dental hygienist I’ve ever had. She does a phenomenal job keeping your teeth clean, is super nice, and makes you feel right at home. The whole staff is very friendly and I couldn’t recommend this place enough!

Vincent C.

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Cobb Galleria Office Complex, Building 200, Suite 1830

Contact

200 Galleria Pkwy SE, Suite 1830
Atlanta, GA 30339

Phone: (770) 955-0550
Email:

Opening Hours

Monday 9AM – 5PM
Tuesday 9AM – 5PM
Wednesday 9AM – 3PM
Thursday 9AM – 5PM
Friday 9AM – 4PM

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