Cosmetic Periodontal Procedures

The following are some of the cosmetic periodontal surgery options we offer right here at our Santa Ana practice:

Gum Grafts: Gum grafting is a procedure Dr. Lacrampe may recommend to address gum recession, which can expose the tooth roots, leading to sensitivity, an increased risk of root decay, and making the teeth appear longer. The procedure involves harvesting healthy tissue from a donor site, which is typically the roof of your mouth, and grafting it onto the areas where your gums have receded.

As the area heals, the grafted tissues will integrate with the surrounding area, leaving you with a healthier, natural-looking gum line. Aside from delivering a more uniform smile, gum tissue grafts can protect the roots from decay and reduce tooth sensitivity.

Gingivectomy: A gingivectomy is another periodontal procedure primarily aimed at removing and reshaping loose, diseased gum tissue to treat some forms of periodontal disease. It can also improve the appearance of a "gummy smile," characterized by overgrown gum tissues that make your teeth appear unusually short or "boxy."

The gingivectomy procedure involves removing excess gum tissue and reshaping the gums, enhancing their contours. It leaves you with a balanced, healthier-looking gum line and improves the aesthetics of your smile. Gingivectomies also help prepare for restorations, such as dental crowns, and make it easier to clean your teeth, enhancing your oral health.

Crown Lengthening: Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure designed to reshape your gum tissue and often the underlying bone to help expose more of a tooth's surface. It is typically performed when a tooth needs to be restored with a dental crown or filling, but there is insufficient tooth structure above the gum line to support the restoration. The crown lengthening procedure can also be used to correct a "gummy" smile, creating a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Aside from enhancing the aesthetics of your smile, crown lengthening is often needed to expose more of a tooth's surface for the successful placement of a dental restoration, such as a crown. Moreover, correcting a gummy smile can help reduce your risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease.