Cosmetic Periodontal Treatment
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Cosmetic Periodontal Treatment
There are two types of periodontal procedures for correcting gummy smile - gingivectomy and crown lengthening. Both are relatively simple procedures that can transform your smile without costly and time-consuming restorative makeovers requiring extensive restorative treatments.
Gingvectomy
Gingivectomy is a simple contouring of gum tissue around each tooth to create natural scallop-shaped gum. The procedure is painless, requires no sutures, and the gum tissue usually heals within two weeks.
This type of excessive gum tissue is commonly seen after completion of orthodontic treatment. Gingivectomy can correct this type of gummy smile without any other extensive procedures. I used an electro-surgery for this painless, no-suture procedure. Second photo is an immediate post-op. It shows almost no bleeding immediately after the procedure.
Crown Lengthening
Crown Lengthening procedure is indicated when we need to re-shape the underlying bone in addition to gum tissue. This procedure involves suturing after the procedure. This procedure is usually performed prior to other cosmetic procedures such as porcelain veneers when indicated.
Crown lengthening procedure was done by Dr. Mark Redd. Dr. Redd is an excellent periodontist whom I have worked with for a long time.
Second photo shows 2-year post-op after placement of 6 porcelain veneers. A smile make-over treatment such as porcelain veneers can give much better result when combined with a cosmetic periodontal procedure if indicated.