Cosmetic Periodontal Procedures

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.