December 3, 2024 | Tri Le An uneven gum line is one in which the gums of typically the top arch extend to different lengths around the teeth–either too long, causing the teeth to look too short, or vice versa. Because symmetry is a key factor in perceived beauty, this can create a look some patients find unattractive. Uneven gums can lead to issues such as gum recession, which increases the risk of tooth decay and sensitivity. It can also lead to bacteria build-up and periodontal disease. In this article we’re laying out the various treatment options for uneven gums, as well as methods for keeping your gums healthy to prevent uneven gums from occurring. Causes of Uneven Gum Lines If you have uneven gums, it’s possible you came by them naturally. Just as genetics can affect the size, shape, and spacing of your teeth, your genes can put you at elevated risk of developing uneven gums. But it is possible to contribute to the situation yourself. Gum disease–which is most often caused by poor oral hygiene–can cause gums to recede, or to swell, either of which could make the gum line uneven if it affects only one area. Toothbrush abrasion–caused by over-aggressive brushing with a brush with hard bristles–can also cause gums to recede, potentially causing uneven gums. Misaligned teeth can also cause gum recession and/or gum overgrowth. Misalignment can be genetic or result from sports injuries or other accidents. Common Treatment Options for Uneven Gum Lines There are several treatment methods available to make your gums more even… 1. Gum Contouring If your case involves your gums resting too low on the teeth (a/k/a excessive gingival display), gum contouring may be the answer. Also called gum reshaping or gingivoplasty, gum contouring involves numbing the gums and then cutting away the superfluous gum tissue. Although a scalpel is sometimes used, most dentists use lasers for gum contouring as lasers are less invasive–leading to less bleeding and faster recovery–and more precise. They can sometimes remove the need for sutures altogether, although these may still be required. The process takes up to two hours to complete and should not be painful, thanks to the anesthesia. 2. Gum Grafting (Soft Tissue Grafting) For the opposite issue–your gums have receded and there’s not enough gum tissue there for an even gum line–the dentist or periodontist can perform a gum graft. This involves taking either donated gum tissue or tissue taken from the roof of your mouth and stitching it into place over the recessed areas. Both the graft site and the roof of your mouth (unless using donor tissue) will be numbed with local anesthesia. 3. Veneers Placing dental veneers is a treatment that is often done in combination with gum contouring for best results. Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or resin/composite that are bonded to the front of teeth to correct chips, cracks, gaps, and more. As they’re custom-designed to change teeth shape, veneers can be made to integrate seamlessly with the newly contoured gum line. But dental veneers aren’t designed to go over gums; for that, there are what’s called gingival veneers, or simply gum veneers. If your uneven gum line is being caused by gum recession, removable gum veneers made from porcelain, acrylic, or composite resin–tinted to match your gum color–offer a non-surgical solution kind of like dentures. They can be worn daily to provide the appearance of an even gum line, and removed at night for sleeping. Fixed gum veneers made of ceramic are also an option. To be a candidate for veneers, patients should have healthy teeth and gums, as veneers can’t be placed over teeth or gums with decay. 4. Crown Lengthening Finally, there’s crown lengthening. Commonly used to treat gummy smile, crown lengthening is essentially a more intensive form of gum contouring–beyond simply removing gum tissue, the dentist or periodontist also removes excess jawbone tissue. The objective is to reveal more of the tooth structure to create an even gum line. Although it’s an outpatient procedure, crown lengthening involves a longer recovery of six to eight weeks. After the first week, the stitches will be removed if they’re not dissolvable. Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy Although there are several causes of uneven gums, keeping healthy gums can reduce your chances of uneven gum lines: Get regular dental checkups: It’s invariably the first rule of thumb for any dental issue–see your dentist twice per year to have plaque removed before it progresses into tartar, gum disease, then more serious conditions. Maintain sound oral hygiene: Instead of being over-aggressive with your brushing, as discussed above, you should aim for high frequency–at least twice per day, but preferably after every meal, as well as flossing once per day. Also keep good technique, brushing at a 45-degree angle to the teeth, gently and in short strokes. Wear a mouthguard: We’ve talked a lot about gum recession and its connection to uneven gum lines. So how to prevent gum recession? One way is to get fitted for and wear a mouthguard if you’re prone to grinding your teeth to ease stress on your gums. Make a lifestyle change: Need another reason to stop smoking or eating unhealthily? Both can deteriorate gum health and lead to uneven gums. How to Decide on the Best Treatment Consulting with your dentist is the easiest and best way to determine the appropriate approach for your case of uneven gum line. They can tailor a treatment plan that may involve more than one method to resolve the issue, based on factors such as the severity of the unevenness, your personal goals for your appearance, and any underlying health conditions you may have. Bunker Hill Dentistry Evens Gum Lines and Restores Smiles If you’re worried about an uneven gum line, our expert team at Bunker Hill Dentistry can help. Discover our gum grafting and contouring services to learn how we can enhance your smile. Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you! Schedule a Consultation Tri LeA practicing dentist since 1987, Dr. Le has been running successful dental practices in Texas with his wife Ann since 1990. A member of the ADA, AACD and AADSM, Dr. Le has also contributed to several leading dental journals.
