Gum Surgery

Your gum tissue is a frame that provides form and shape to the top of your tooth. A less than attractive smile results when the integrity of the gum is compromised or the actual gum between your teeth becomes weak. This is generally caused by gum disease, resulting from poor dental hygiene. When this happens, you actually begin to lose gum tissue. Gum problems can cause two types of common problems: a "long tooth smile" or a "gummy smile." Your cosmetic dentist may recommend gum surgery to correct these kinds of problems and improve your smile.

A "gummy smile" occurs when a significant portion of your gum is exposed, causing your teeth to appear too short when you smile. Using cosmetic gum surgery, we can lengthen your teeth from the neck of the tooth upwards. This will make your teeth appear to be longer, and much less gum will be seen when you smile. Your dentist uses a laser to remove the excess tissue and expose more of your teeth.

The "long tooth smile" is when a person's gums recede over time, making the teeth look longer. This can be the result of age, a gingival problem, or a bad bite. Cosmetic gum surgery, or periodontal plastic surgery, can correct almost any deformity or gingival problem that prevents you from having a beautiful smile. Our cosmetic dentists or periodontists can provide treatment to give you a more youthful smile.