Cosmetic dentistry, like porcelain veneers, has long been a not-so-secret weapon of Hollywood stars hoping to improve their smiles quickly. But veneers aren’t the only way to improve the appearance of your smile, and modern cosmetic dentistry isn’t only available to the famous, either. You might be surprised how quickly and effectively your dentist could enhance the esthetics of your natural smile, through treatments like gum contouring. If you’re unhappy with your smile, and tired of feeling insecure because of it, consider the many ways cosmetic dentistry could help.
Think Outside the Teeth
Teeth aren’t the only cause for an unsymmetrical or lackluster smile. Especially as they age, many people struggle with asymmetrical gumlines or excessive gum tissue, which is often referred to as a “gummy” smile. Gum contouring can help. It is a cosmetic treatment that can be used to help reduce excessive gum tissue, as well as to straighten the gumline, in general.
This can, in turn, make your teeth look larger and more uniform. During a consultation, a cosmetic dentist can help determine if your teeth or gums are the actual cause for your cosmetic concerns, and recommend treatment accordingly.
Thanks to modern technology, dentists can now use lasers to complete gum contouring, which allows sutures to be made as the dentists sculpts the gums. This greatly improves recovery time and limits the discomfort, compared to traditional surgery methods.
Cosmetic Enhancement Isn’t Limited to One Form of Treatment
Of course, many patients that seek cosmetic dentistry find that the only way to achieve their ideal smile is through a unique combination of treatments. Using a combination of whitening and bonding, for instance, can help create a dazzling smile no longer flawed by disproportionally sized teeth or staining. Some patients might benefit from gum contouring along their upper teeth and contouring on lower, overcrowded teeth.
