Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery Specialist

What is cosmetic periodontal surgery?

Cosmetic periodontal surgery includes all the techniques that can make the gums, teeth and smile look their best. These procedures are not so much focused on restoration as they are on achieving the best and most pleasing aesthetic results for a healthier-looking, more attractive smile.

What are some of the most common cosmetic procedures performed by a periodontist?

Periodontists have advanced skills and education in treating a host of cosmetic issues, including:

• Gummy smiles, where an excess of gum tissue can cause teeth to appear too short or can leave too much gum tissue exposed when smiling or talking
• Teeth that appear too long as a result of recession or a natural lack of adequate gum tissue
• Ridge augmentation to correct indentations or depressions in the gums and bone left when a tooth is lost

Most cosmetic gum surgery is aimed at recontouring the gum line, either by adding or removing gum or other tissue for a more natural and attractive appearance.

Can cosmetic gum procedures also improve the health of my teeth and gums?

Many procedures serve two purposes, both helping the smile look more balanced and aesthetically pleasing and also helping to ward off gum disease or other issues that can occur when gums recede or bone tissue atrophies. For instance, gum grafting helps protect tooth roots and root pockets by providing a more effective barrier against disease-causing bacteria. Ridge augmentation can help patients recreate the natural contour of the jaw bone so it can support an implant or provide better support for dentures which otherwise might become loose and slip. Before any procedure takes place, a complete evaluation of the teeth, gums and jaw bone is performed to ensure the procedures being used are the most appropriate based on each patient's unique needs. Patients who would like to improve the appearance and health of their gums and smile should contact Dr. Ling for an appointment.