Lip RepositioningSan Jose, CA
Lip repositioning is a dental procedure designed to address a high lip line, also known as a “gummy smile.” This condition occurs when the upper lip rises too high when smiling, exposing a significant amount of gum tissue. While a high lip line poses zero health risks, it still needs professional intervention to be corrected.
Fortunately, lip positioning is available at Perio4U Periodontics and Dental Implant Center San Jose. Are you ready to have the smile of your dreams? Contact our San Jose office by calling 1-408-998-8008 and scheduling an appointment.
What is Lip Repositioning?
According to the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry, lip repositioning is a periodontal procedure that involves adjusting the position of the inner lip tissue and gums to reduce the amount of tissue visible when smiling. Unlike other treatments that target the lips directly, periodontal lip repositioning involves making small incisions along the gums to reposition the soft tissue and reduce the visibility of the gums. The primary aim of the procedure is to create a more natural-looking smile by lowering the gum line to a more balanced and proportionate position.
We commonly recommend this procedure for individuals who experience discomfort or self-consciousness due to their “gummy” smile. It provides a solution for those who may feel that their gums are disproportionately large compared to their teeth. It provides a solution for those who may feel that their gums are disproportionately large compared to their teeth. It is a minimally invasive treatment that we perform under local anesthesia, making it a comfortable option for most patients.
Benefits of Lip Repositioning
The primary benefit of lip repositioning is improved aesthetics of a patient’s smile. By reducing the amount of visible gum tissue when smiling, patients can achieve a more balanced and natural smile that highlights their teeth rather than their gums. This procedure can provide patients with increased confidence and improved self-esteem.
Additionally, lip repositioning can help improve oral health. Excessive gum tissue can make it more difficult to clean the teeth properly, increasing the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues. By lowering the gum line, patients may find it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Who is a Good Candidate for Lip Repositioning?
Patients who are experiencing excessive gum exposure while smiling may benefit from lip repositioning. Ideal candidates typically have a healthy gum line and no underlying medical conditions that could complicate the procedure. Lip repositioning can help patients who feel their smile is overshadowed by their gums, resulting in a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
It is important to consult with our team to determine if lip repositioning is the most effective treatment. Dr. Niloofar Zarkesh DDS, MS, will evaluate the patient’s gum health, smile aesthetics, and overall oral health to ensure that lip repositioning will provide the desired outcome.
The Lip Repositioning Procedure
As mentioned, we use local anesthesia to perform the lip repositioning procedure. During the procedure, we make small incisions along the gum line. These incisions allow us to remove excess or reposition the gum tissue to an ideal position. Once the amount of teeth and gum tissue is proportionate-looking, we will apply sutures to the area and secure them in place.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and most patients can return home the same day. Since the procedure focuses on repositioning the gums, it is minimally invasive and has a relatively quick recovery time compared to more extensive surgeries.
Recovery After Lip Repositioning
Recovery from lip repositioning is relatively quick and straightforward. Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days after the procedure, which typically resolves within one week. We will provide post-operative instructions, which may include recommendations on eating soft foods and avoiding certain activities to allow the gums to heal properly.
Pain management, such as over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, often manages discomfort following the procedure. However, depending on the number of incisions and sutures we make, we may also prescribe a stronger pain medication. It is also important to follow oral hygiene instructions carefully to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What is periodontal lip repositioning?
Q. What are some advantages to undergoing lip repositioning treatment?
Q. How does the periodontist determine candidacy for lip repositioning?
Q. What can I expect during the lip repositioning procedure?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the recovery time for lip repositioning?
A. Recovery time after lip repositioning is typically quick. Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days, which usually subside within one week. Full recovery usually takes about one to two weeks, but patients can typically resume their normal activities within a few days after the procedure.
Q. Is lip repositioning painful?
A. We perform the procedure under local anesthesia so patients do not experience pain during the treatment. Afterward, mild discomfort may occur, such as tenderness in the treated area. We often recommend that patients manage these symptoms with OTC pain medications, and the symptoms generally resolve within a few days.
Q. Will I need follow-up visits after the procedure?
A. Yes, follow-up visits are an important part of the recovery process. These visits enable the periodontist to monitor the healing process, check for any signs of complications, and confirm that the gum line has healed as expected. Follow-up appointments also provide an opportunity for the patient to ask any questions and discuss their progress.
Q. Are there any risks associated with lip repositioning?
A. Although lip repositioning is generally safe, there are some potential risks to consider. These include infection, scarring, or changes in sensation in the treated area. However, when our skilled team performs this procedure, these risks are minimal, and the procedure has a high success rate.
Q. How long will the results of lip repositioning last?
A. The results of lip repositioning are permanent. After the repositioning, it remains in place, providing lasting improvements to the smile's appearance. As the procedure involves altering the gum tissue, there is no need for additional treatments or maintenance, making it a long-term solution for those with excessive gum exposure.
Contact Us
Perio4U Periodontics and Dental Implant Center San Jose is located at
386 S Monroe St
San Jose, CA
95128
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