Do you have overgrown gums? They might extend further down your teeth, making them look shorter than they are. While this can give you a gummy smile, this trait can actually affect your oral health if you aren’t careful. Here’s what you should know and how your dentist can help you protect your grin from any harm.
How Can Overgrown Gums Be Trouble?
The soft tissues in your mouth can become enlarged for a wide range of reasons. Poor dental hygiene, medication side effects, hormonal changes, and genetics are a few possible culprits.
Regardless, this trait can make it harder to brush and floss effectively. Without properly cleaning along and beneath your gumline, you risk developing periodontal disease. This infection can cause noticeable redness and inflammation at first, but the advanced stages may lead to recession and tooth loss.
Excess gum tissue can become tender and, in severe cases, make it hard to speak. So, by correcting it, you can have a more comfortable smile.
What Can You Do to Fix Overgrown Gums?
Although this trait can be troublesome, your dentist can offer an effective solution. Gum recontouring is often recommended. A Biolase soft tissue laser will remove the excess tissue and cauterize the area at the same time. This means you won’t need any stitches, so your post-op recovery is easier. Better yet, it can typically be finished in just one appointment, so you won’t need to have constant touch-ups.
Tips to Keep Your Gums Healthy
In the end, it’s important to keep your gums in great shape. Here are a few tips to add to your routine:
- Angle your toothbrush 45 degrees toward your gumline.
- Floss every day to remove bacteria in places brushing can’t reach.
- Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash.
- Follow a balanced diet that gives your smile the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
Don’t forget to have routine checkups with your dentist. They can monitor your oral health and spot any changes. That way, warning signs get spotted early and don’t turn into a bigger problem.
About the Author
Dr. Javier Perez earned his first dental degree from the University of Medicine in Cuba and his second one at UCLA. He has nearly 25 years of experience that he uses to give patients in Tyler the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Perez offers gum recontouring for overgrown gum tissue. By using state-of-the-art technology, your treatment is effective and comfortable; that way, you get the results you want without trouble. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call 903-534-8110.