PERIODONTAL PLASTIC SURGERY
Everybody deserves to smile with confidence
A bright and beautiful smile can do wonders for your confidence. Periodontal plastic surgery helps to correct the aesthetic look of your teeth and gums but most importantly, it will improve your overall periodontal health.
What is periodontal plastic surgery?
Periodontal plastic surgery is a procedure performed on the gums to help enhance your smile and overall periodontal health.
It can help correct a variety of gum-related problems, both for aesthetic and health reasons. Most commonly, it is used to reduce a gummy smile or an uneven gum line. It can also help correct long teeth or exposed roots. If a tooth is lost as a result of an accident or dental problem, the area can develop indentations or concavity in the gum and jawbone. Periodontal plastic surgery will aid in creating a more uniform and natural appearance where the tooth is missing.
Why should you get periodontal plastic surgery?
These different procedures can help improve the overall look of your smile and prepare your mouth for further cosmetic procedures.
Alternatively, your periodontist may suggest this type of surgery for health reasons, such as to treat and prevent gum disease. Speaking with a qualified specialist can help you decide if this type of surgery is right for you.
Is it just aesthetics?
Some procedures are not only done for aesthetic reasons. They can also help ensure your periodontal health. Removing excess gum tissue can help prevent and treat gum disease, as it decreases the pockets between teeth where bacteria grow.
Do I need a referral?
The short answer is no, a referral is not necessary for a periodontal consultation.
If you feel that you experience any signs and symptoms of periodontal problems or if you think you might benefit from a periodontal plastic surgery, it is important that you schedule an appointment with a periodontist without delay.
TYPES OF PLASTIC SURGERY
What is a crown lengthening surgical procedure?
Periodontal plastic surgery essentially is a category of varying surgical procedures. It includes gum graft surgery, gum and bone ridge augmentations, and most commonly crown lengthening. A crown lengthening procedure is done when there is inadequate tooth exposed or too much gum tissue is present.
Why should I consider this?
Essentially, this procedure is a “gum lift.” It is usually performed on patients who feel their gums are overexposed when they smile. Patients often refer to this as a “gummy smile.” This type of crown lengthening helps create a wider, more natural smile.
How is the procedure done?
The periodontist will remove excess gum and bone tissue in order to reshape the contour of the gum around the teeth. The patient’s smile will ultimately reveal more of their natural teeth.
The procedure can be performed on a single tooth, though it is most often done on a series of teeth to enhance the entire smile. The periodontist will make a small incision into the gum tissue to remove a thin band of excess tissue. This allows them to evaluate the bone around your teeth and make small modifications to ensure a harmonious gum and bone shape around the teeth. The procedure is performed under local anesthetic.
1h procedure / 1-2 weeks healing / 1-2 weeks follow-up after procedure.
Why should I consider this?
A functional crown lengthening procedure is done when there is little tooth structure visible and the dentist needs access to more tooth structure.
It is often done in cases where the tooth has decayed, if it has broken below the gum line or if the tooth has an inadequate structure for restoration, such as a filling, crown or bridge.
How is the procedure done?
During the functional crown lengthening, the periodontist will lower the gum and bone levels. This will expose more of the tooth’s underlying structure so it can be restored by your dentist. Your periodontist must reshape the gums and supporting bone to make enough space for the filling, crown or bridge.
The periodontist will make a small incision into the gum tissue to remove a thin band of excess tissue. A small amount of bone will be removed around the tooth in order to expose for tooth structure. The procedure is performed under local anesthetic.
1h procedure / 6-8 weeks healing beafore a crown is placed / 1-2 weeks Follow-up after procedure
YOUR FIRST VISIT
What to expect?
If you are now convinced that you are a candidate for periodontal plastic surgery, you can schedule a consultation at the clinic. Your periodontist will perform a thorough assessment of your mouth to determine the health of your gums and bone and if you qualify for this type of surgery.
01
Review
During your first visit, our professionals will review your complete medical and dental histories with you. They will need to know about any medication you are taking or if you currently have any condition(s) that could affect your periodontal treatment, including pregnancy, diabetes, and heart disease.
02
Examination
Our professionals will examine your gums to assess the probing depths around your teeth, gum line height, jawbone alignment, and if you have any loose or missing teeth.
