Gum Lifting

Picture of perfectly straight and white front teeth

Gum lifting, also known as gingival contouring, is a cosmetic dental procedure offered at The Sadati Center for Aesthetic Dentistry. This treatment is designed to reshape the gum line, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Did You Know?

Gum lifts can be used as a cosmetic procedure to improve the look of your smile or as a treatment for periodontal disease. When gum disease does not respond to antibiotics or dental cleanings, pocket reduction surgery is done to remove excess gum tissue as a way of restoring gum health. 

Symptoms Addressed

Gum lifting is an ideal solution for individuals with:

  • Excessive gum tissue resulting in a “gummy” smile
  • Uneven gum lines that make the teeth appear asymmetrical
  • Gums that cover a significant portion of the teeth, making them look short
  • Receding gums that expose too much of the teeth

What is Gum Lifting?

Sometimes the contour of your gums can make one tooth look shorter than the other, when in fact the teeth are fine. Excessive gum tissue or gum tissue of varying heights is not necessarily unhealthy, but can produce an uneven looking smile. To correct these conditions, a gum lift is performed. A gum lift or gum contouring procedure can be done painlessly in a very short time, without sutures or bleeding, and at the same time as your other restorative treatment. The result is a beautiful, even-looking smile.

Treatment Process

Consultation with Dr. Sadati

  • Assessment: Discussion of aesthetic goals and examination of gum structure.

Treatment Planning

  • Digital Imaging: Visualizing the expected outcome.
  • Personalized Plan: Tailored approach to meet individual needs.

Gum Reshaping

  • Local Anesthesia: Ensuring a comfortable, pain-free experience.
  • Reshaping Technique: Careful removal or recontouring of excess gum tissue.
  • Precision Tools: Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment for accurate results.

Recovery and Follow-up

  • Guidance: Post-procedure care instructions.
  • Monitoring: Ensuring optimal healing and results.

Prevention

Maintaining your new gum line involves:

  • Regular dental hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing.
  • Routine dental check-ups.
  • Avoiding activities that can harm gum health, such as smoking.

Outlook

After a gum lifting procedure, patients often experience:

  • A more attractive smile.
  • Increased confidence.
  • Improved oral hygiene due to easier cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Am I a candidate for a gum lift?

You may be a candidate for a gum lift if you have excessive gum tissue that grows over your teeth and makes them appear smaller than normal. You may also be a candidate for a gum lift if you are having restorations placed such as veneers or dental crowns. A gum lift may also be required if you have an existing dental crown that has been partially covered by gum overgrowth. Gum lifts can also be used to even out an uneven gum line. To find out if you are an ideal candidate for a gum lift, schedule an appointment with Dr. Sadati today. 

What can I expect during a gum lift?

An example of gums receiving a Gum lifting treatment

Gum lifts can be performed in as little as one office visit and it usually takes about 1-2 hours. During a gum lift, a local anesthetic will be applied to the treatment site to keep you comfortable. Dental sedation options are also available if requested. To begin, Dr. Sadati will mark the new gum line and discuss this with you. Then a dental laser or scalpel will be used to remove excess gum tissue to improve your gum line contour. Sutures may also be used. In some cases, bone may also need to be removed from the tooth root in order to obtain long-term results. 

What can I expect after a gum lift?

After your gum lift, you will need to limit your activity level for a few days to promote healing. Once the local anesthetic wears off, you may experience some discomfort that can be managed with over the counter pain medications and/or applying a cold compress to the area for 15-20 minutes at a time. In most cases, you can also expect to be on a temporary soft foods diet for the first 2-3 days. 

While you recover from a gum lift, your dentist will provide you with information on how to brush your teeth without disrupting the treatment site, as well as how to keep the area clean with salt water or antibiotic mouthwashes. Although you can usually return to your normal activities and diet within a few days of a gum lift, it can take days or weeks for the gums to completely heal.

Begin Your Journey to a Perfect Smile

Interested in enhancing your smile with gum lifting? Call us at 888-873-3558 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sadati. At The Sadati Center for Aesthetic Dentistry, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams.