Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery / Soft Tissue Grafting
Cosmetic periodontal procedures are used to regain an esthetic tooth-gum relationship. These treatments address esthetic concerns that patients have when they smile and their teeth/gums are exposed.
Gingival recession is the change of gum positioning exposing part of the tooth’s root. When this occurs the tooth can become sensitive to hot, cold, sweets or acid. This is usually the result of bad brushing technique, smoking, thin gum tissue and periodontitis.
A gingival graft (soft tissue graft) is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, and gently placed over the exposed root surface. The graft tissue may also be obtained from numerous companies.
Many patients are unhappy with their smile because their teeth appear short. Although they may appear short, they may actually be the proper length. The teeth may be covered with too much gum tissue, which we can correct by performing, cosmetic crown lengthening.
Periodontal plastic surgery and soft tissue grafting procedures, involve surgical management of these gingival deformities. Among these are:
- A “gummy” smile/Short teeth
This can easily be corrected by simple surgery to remove excess gum tissue. This procedure is done in conjunction with the restoring general dentist. (cosmetic crown lengthening)
- Uneven gum line due to short teeth or receding gums.
- Correction of tooth sensitivity due to receding gums.
Soft tissue grafts are done to cover unattractive tooth roots, reduce gum recession and protect the roots from decay.
- Restoration of lost or collapsed gum tissue due to missing tooth. (concavities)