Gingival Plastic Surgery

Even for those with very healthy, straight, and white teeth having unbalanced gingival architecture can greatly detract from a beautiful smile. The two most common problems associated with poor gingival display are: too much gingival display or a “gummy smile” and the other is unbalanced gingival heights or “asymmetrical smiles” which cause the teeth length not to be uniform during a full smile. Beautiful smiles, like broadway productions, have three factors that each play very important roles: the gum tissue sets the stage, the lips are the curtain, and the teeth are the actors.

Gummy smiles are not uncommon. Some patients with not so excessive gingival display can be corrected in our office using the same local anesthesia that is used for routine dental procedures. These cases require recontouring of the gingival tissue heights only. Other patients with excessive gingival display usually have the need for removal of excess gingival tissue and excess bone. These patients are referred to our periodontal specialist who has expertise in correcting such problems. In either case, placing porcelain veneers after adequate healing time will result in a much more attractive smile.

Asymmetrical smiles are often caused by malpositioned or crooked teeth. Gumline decay and gingival recession can also cause unbalanced gingival architecture. Regardless of the cause it is critical to first correct the causative factor and then balance the gingival tissue heights. Once the tissue is symmetrical and the teeth are restored... the before and after results are quite dramatic.

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