Gum Lift Surgery Procedure and Aftercare

Gum lift surgery, known by many other names including gum contouring, gingival sculpting, crown lengthening, and many other names (periodontal plastic surgery, gingivectomy, and gingivoplasty, gum reshaping, aesthetic gingival surgery, and mucogingival surgery) is a procedure that reshapes the gum line to improve the appearance of the teeth and gum. This procedure is ideal for people with a gummy smile or uneven gum lines.

There are two main types of gum lift procedures: laser and surgical. A laser gum lift that is quick and causes minimal discomfort. Surgical gum lift that is done also in two ways: removing excess gum tissue, or exposing more of the tooth by reshaping both gum and bone.

In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about gum lift surgery procedure. We will explain what the procedure involves and how to prepare for it. We will also discuss the recovery process and aftercare tips. Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of the steps of gum lift surgery.

Page Contents

Pre-Surgery Preparation

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

The first step is an initial consultation and assessment by the dentist. The result is examining the gums and teeth, discussing goals of procedure, and creating a personalized treatment plan based on medical history and oral health situation. For surgical gum lifting procedures, dentist can possibly take X-rays to evaluate the bone structure.

2. Pre-Surgery Instructions

Second part of preparation is about receiving specific instructions including guidelines on diet and medications to take or avoid.

The Gum Lift Surgery Procedure

Laser Gum Surgery

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the gums and surrounding areas, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the procedure.
Marking the Gum Line: The dentist uses a pen to outline the new gum line, providing a precise guide for tissue removal.
Laser Application: A soft tissue laser is employed to gently remove excess gum tissue while simultaneously cauterizing blood vessels, which reduces bleeding and promotes faster healing. The laser technique also minimizes the risk of infection and speeds up the recovery process.
Sculpting the Gums: The dentist carefully sculpts the gums to create a uniform and aesthetically pleasing gum line, enhancing the overall appearance of the smile.

Duration: Typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
Average Cost in Iran: Approximately $200 to $300 per unit.

Surgical Gum Lift Gingivectomy

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the treatment area, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Marking the Gum Line: The dentist marks the desired new gum line to guide the precise removal of excess tissue.
Incision: Using a scalpel or electrosurgery device, the dentist makes accurate incisions to begin removing the excess gum tissue. These tools allow for precise cutting and minimal damage to surrounding tissues.
Tissue Removal: The dentist carefully excises the excess gum tissue, reducing the amount of visible gum. This step helps to expose more of the tooth structure.
Reshaping the Gums: The remaining gum tissue is reshaped to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Sutures: In some cases, sutures are placed to secure the gums in their new position, aiding in the healing process.

Duration: Typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
Average Cost in Iran: Approximately $100 to $200 per unit.

Surgical Gum Lift Crown Lengthening

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the gums and surrounding area, ensuring the procedure is painless for the patient.
Incision: The dentist makes incisions to create a flap of gum tissue, and expose the underlying bone and tooth roots.
Bone Removal: If necessary, a small amount of bone around the teeth is removed to prevent the gums from growing back to their original position.
Tissue Removal: Excess gum tissue is carefully excised to reveal more of the tooth structure.
Reshaping the Gums: The remaining gum tissue is repositioned and reshaped to achieve the desired aesthetic appearance.
Sutures: The gums are sutured back in place to secure the new gum line and promote proper healing.

Duration: Typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
Average Cost in Iran: Approximately $250 to $500 per unit.

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

Immediate Post-Surgery Care

Managing Pain and Swelling:
- Take prescribed pain medications as directed by your dentist.
- Apply ice packs to the outside of your mouth for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
Diet Recommendations:
- Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs for the first few days.
- Avoid spicy, crunchy, and hard foods to prevent irritation to the surgical area.

Oral Hygiene Tips

How to Brush and Floss During Recovery:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth.
- Avoid brushing directly on the surgical site to prevent disturbing stitches.
- Floss carefully around the surgical area to avoid irritation.
Recommended Mouthwashes and Rinses:
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash or a warm saltwater solution (1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) to keep the area clean and prevent infection.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding the frequency and method of rinsing.

Expected Recovery Timeline

Day	Recovery Stage
Day1	– Swelling and discomfort – Use ice packs – Take prescribed pain medication – Stick to soft foods
Days 2-3	– Swelling begins to reduce – Continue soft foods – Be gentle with oral hygiene
Within a Week	– Most swelling subsides – Discomfort lessens – Gradually return to normal activities
1-2 Weeks	– Full recovery – Follow-up visit to monitor healing – Possible removal of sutures
Beyond 2 Weeks	– Normal activities resumed – Continued oral hygiene care

Risks and Complications

Gum lift surgery, like any procedure, has some risks and complications:

– Potential side effects include swelling and discomfort.

– There is a risk of infection and bleeding after the surgery.

– Sensitivity to hot or cold foods may also occur.

– Sometimes, uneven healing can happen, making the gums look uneven.

Note: It’s important to follow your dentist’s care instructions to minimize these risks. If you notice severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your dentist immediately.

Alternative treatments for gum aesthetics

While gum cosmetic surgery is an effective solution for enhancing gum aesthetics, alternative treatments are available depending on the specific dental issues you wish to address. These alternatives may be recommended by your dentist or gum cosmetic surgeon based on your case.

Some common alternative treatments include:

Orthodontics: In some cases, orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, can help correct the appearance of a gummy smile. By moving the teeth into their proper positions, orthodontics can minimize the visibility of excessive gum tissue.
Botox injections: For individuals with a gummy smile caused by excessive muscle movement, Botox injections can be an option. Botox can relax the muscles responsible for lifting the upper lip, resulting in a less gummy and more balanced smile.
Lip repositioning: Lip repositioning is a surgical procedure that involves repositioning the upper lip to cover more of the gums. This can be an alternative for individuals with a gummy smile caused by a hyperactive upper lip.
Crown lengthening: Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that involves removing gum tissue and, if necessary, bone to expose more of the tooth structure. This can be an option for individuals with a gummy smile caused by short teeth.

Choosing a qualified cosmetic gum surgeon

Choosing a qualified gum cosmetic surgeon is crucial for a successful procedure and optimal results. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a surgeon:

Credentials and experience: Research the surgeon’s qualifications, credentials, and experience performing gum cosmetic surgery. Look for board-certified periodontists or oral surgeons specializing in gum aesthetics.
Patient reviews and testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients to gauge the surgeon’s reputation and satisfaction. This can provide valuable insights into the surgeon’s skills and professionalism.
Before and after photos: Request to see before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone gum cosmetic surgery with the surgeon. This will give you a visual representation of the surgeon’s work and help you assess their aesthetic capabilities.
Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. Use this opportunity to ask questions, address any concerns, and evaluate the surgeon’s communication skills and approach.
Cost and financing options: Inquire about the cost of the procedure and any financing options available. While cost should not be the sole determining factor, it is important to consider your budget and ensure that the surgeon’s fees align with your financial capabilities.

Conclusion

Gum lift surgery is a highly effective procedure for enhancing your smile by reshaping your gum line to show more of your teeth, resulting in a balanced and attractive appearance. This surgery is ideal for correcting a gummy smile, uneven gum lines, and gum overgrowth, significantly improving your overall oral health by making your teeth easier to clean. Whether through laser gum surgery, surgical gum lift gingivectomy, or crown lengthening, this procedure offers lasting results and a relatively straightforward recovery process.

If you’re considering a gum lift, it’s essential to consult with a specialist who can provide a personalized treatment plan and guide you through each step, from preparation to recovery. Dr. Nazanin Noorbakhsh is an experienced and highly qualified dentist who specializes in gum surgery. She can answer any questions you may have, and help determine if the procedure is right for you.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nazanin Noorbakhsh now to discuss your goals. Even if you’re unsure whether this procedure is right for you, Dr. Noorbakhsh can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your unique dental needs. Please view our before-and-after images to see the transformative results that gum lift surgery can achieve.