Crown Lengthening
This procedure is used to improve a “gummy” smile because your teeth appear short. Your teeth may actually be the proper length, but they’re covered with too much gum tissue. During this procedure, excess gum and bone tissue is reshaped to expose the correct amount of tooth. This can be done to one or even several teeth to expose a natural, symmetrical smile.
Your dentist may also recommend crown lengthening to ensure an ideal outcome for restorative or aesthetic dental procedures. Tooth decay and trauma may leave insufficient tooth structure for a restoration, such as a crown or bridge. Crown lengthening adjusts the gum and bone level to expose more of the tooth so it can be restored.
Soft Tissue Grafts
Exposed tooth roots are caused by gum recession. Recession occurs due to a variety of reasons, including aggressive tooth brushing or periodontal disease. You may not be in control of what caused the recession, but prior to treatment your periodontist can help you identify the factors contributing to the problem. To enhance your smile or reduce sensitivity gum grafting surgery will repair the defect and help to prevent additional recession and bone loss. This procedure involves transplanting a portion of tissue from your palate or another donor source to cover the exposed root.
