Everyone knows it is possible to whiten your teeth. But have you ever noticed darker spots on your gums that interfere with the cosmetics of your smile? These dark spots are generally harmless and can be the result of a few different situations or conditions. If you have dark spots on your gums, it is important to see your dentist, as they will give you a thorough check up and make sure the spots are just cosmetic. If they are a cosmetic only concern, there is a solution! Gum peeling is responsible for “whitening” the gums. The depigmentation technique removes spots that are the result of the accumulation of melanin (a protein that gives color to the skin) or metallic tattoos (stains from restorations), as well as scars and excess gingival volume.
Gum whitening or gum peeling is an integral treatment of Aesthetic Dentistry that aims to surgically remove stains on the gums, normally brown in color. In general, smokers and people of black and Asian descent tend to suffer from the problem.
The reason for this is the fact that these people produce a greater quantity of cells known as melanocytes, which develop a brown pigment. In this way, the gums become dark, interfering with oral and facial aesthetics, especially in patients who show their gums when smiling.
As a rule, the sessions are quick and, in less than 60 minutes, it is possible to obtain the desired result. The positive side is the fact that there is no discomfort for the patient due to the application of anesthesia during the procedure and, more importantly, the post-operative period is usually painless.
Procedure
Peeling is done through dermabrasion of pigmented tissues, which is a surgical sanding of the skin. There is no reason to worry as the procedure is done under local anesthesia. This is a slight peeling of the gums, removing the melanocytes. The most used and least invasive technique (with less discomfort and greater peace of mind for the patient) consists of the use of ultra-thin diamond drills coupled to specific ultrasound devices. After this superficial removal, new pink gingival epithelial tissue will form. “In just seven days, an excellent and significant aesthetic result is achieved. Generally, two sessions are required, one for each dental arch. The procedure lasts from 30 minutes to two hours.
Result
The result can be seen in 72 hours, enough time for the body to produce a first skin to protect the area, without melanin and completely pink. After seven days, the gums look very close to normal, without stains. After 15 days, the patient no longer presents any type of postoperative sensitivity, and the aesthetic result can be seen.
Cost
The cost of treatment can vary between $800-$1500 per arch, (you have two dental arches) depending on the degree of pigmentation and the area to be worked on.
Care
Post-operative care requires care with your diet, which should be free from fibrous, spicy, acidic, and fatty foods. Regarding oral hygiene, the patient should avoid brushing their teeth for seven days. During this period, bacterial plaque control is carried out with the daily use of mouthwashes with chlorhexidine.