Excessive or Uneven Gums
Having a beautiful smile that you are proud to show off requires more than just healthy teeth. You also need to have healthy gums that are proportionate to the rest of your mouth. Even the most beautiful teeth can look uneven, large or small if you have gums that are excessive or uneven. Fortunately, there are simple treatments that correct excessive and uneven gums to create stunning smiles.
What Are Excessive or Uneven Gums?
Uneven or excessive gums include those that are too large and cover up too much of the teeth as well as gums that have receded and show too much tooth. The gums can also be uneven and cover some teeth more than others, making the teeth look crooked or uneven. Wear on the gums occurs sometimes occurs at different rates, causing uneven wear. Uneven, excessive or receded gums are not aesthetically pleasing, and, in some cases, they can lead to more serious problems including tooth loss.
Causes of Uneven or Excessive Gums or Gum Recession
There are numerous causes for uneven gums or gums that are excessive or have started to recede. Many individuals are simply born with gums that are excessive or not completely even as the result of genetics. Receding gums can be caused by braces, brushing habits or misalignment of the teeth. Gum recession most commonly occurs in adults, but it is occasionally seen in children and teens as well.
Treatment Options
The treatments for uneven or excessive gums vary depending upon the exact nature of the problem. For gums that have receded a considerable amount, gum grafts may be necessary. During this procedure, tissue from the roof of the mouth or another part of the gum is grafted onto the area where the gum has receded.
For patients with excessive gums or an unevenness where there is too much gum in certain areas, the excess tissue can be contoured or removed. This procedure is often referred to as a gum lift, and it is performed using a laser. While gum lifts were once painful procedures that required extensive recovery time, today’s laser gum lifts are performed with the use of local anesthesia, and patients typically only need over-the-counter pain medications. Most are able to resume normal eating and drinking within a day or two.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile despite having straight, healthy teeth, your gums may be to blame. A smile that is too gummy can make the teeth look small or uneven, while a mouth in which the gums have begun to recede can make the teeth look large or unhealthy. At Castle Rock Family Dental, we can improve the health and appearance of your gums and create the beautiful, healthy smile you desire. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment!