Curious about periodontal treatments that also have cosmetic benefits? Read on to learn more. Gum tissue protects teeth, but it also serves the purpose of giving the smile a natural and healthy appearance. If your gum tissue has been affected by gum disease, a periodontist may recommend cosmetic periodontal procedures to restore the smile's appearance as well as improve its function.
An overview of cosmetic periodontal procedures
When it comes to enhancing the appearance of the gum line, a cosmetic periodontal procedure is typically done in order to build the framework for restorative and cosmetic dentistry, including crowns, bridges, and veneers.
Crown lengthening
Some people have a gummy smile or seemingly short teeth, for which a dental professional may recommend crown lengthening, otherwise called a gum lift. The procedure can bring dramatic changes to the smile and often takes about an hour. Crown lengthening requires reshaping extra gum and bone tissue to expose more tooth structure. The lengthening operation may be performed on a single tooth or a group of teeth, based on the patient's preferences.
Cosmetic crown lengthening aims to reveal more dental structure for a more attractive smile. For patients with deep gum pockets, it may also aid in treating gum disease. If tooth decay or damage occurs around or below the gum line, the periodontist may perform functional crown lengthening to uncover more of the tooth structure in order to then restore it with a crown or other restoration.
Gum graft
Gum recession is when the gum tissues erode around the tooth, potentially exposing the roots. The recession might be restricted to a single tooth or widespread across the mouth. Tooth sensitivity, tissue inflammation, root exposure, and aesthetic problems are common symptoms. Simple tissue transplant treatments can be done to correct gum recessions.
Gum tissue is the mouth's first line of defense against infection-causing bacteria. Gum disease may develop if the gum tissue surrounding the teeth is inadequate, leading to infections, bone degradation, and tooth loss. Tissue graft procedures help preserve the teeth by rebuilding the gums.
Ridge augmentation
Gum and bone recession may occur after tooth loss or extraction. This situation is known as ridge resorption and may result from the deterioration of the jawbone, the gums, or both. One or more teeth may be affected around the gap. Food debris tends to accumulate due to ridge resorption and may contribute to issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
When the teeth that are visible when smiling are affected, this issue can be a major cosmetic issue. Ridge modification improves the appearance and function of the area by mending abnormalities in the gums and bone.
Final Note
You may be a candidate for one of the above-mentioned cosmetic periodontal procedures if you have issues like a gummy smile, gingival or gum recession, or difficulties with the tissue between your teeth. Treatments are necessary not only to enhance a person's smile but also to protect sensitive regions and avoid further issues. Contact our office to schedule a periodontal consultation.
Request an appointment or call Texas Implant & Dental Specialists at 972-535-6555 for an appointment in our Plano office.
Related Posts
Periodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease and other conditions affecting the gums, as well as the placement and maintenance of dental implants. It is essential for maintaining the gums' health and the teeth' supporting structures. If your dentist has recommended the care of…
Periodontal procedures are generally used to address oral health concerns such as periodontitis. However, many are surprised to learn about the cosmetic advantages surgical procedures from a periodontist can provide. This review discusses several procedures periodontists perform that have cosmetic uses and help to improve the health of the gums and jawbone.Notable periodontal cosmetic surgical…
There are various periodontal cosmetic procedures to choose from if you have missing teeth. Most people will lose at least one of their teeth at some point in their lives.Gum disease is the top cause of adults losing their teeth. It is a bacterial infection that leads to the inflammation of gum tissues. A periodontist…