There are so many different reasons that a person may be unhappy with their smile. Most of the time it has something to do with their teeth. They are usually concerned about the gaps, their color, fixing a chip or crack, as well as many other conditions. One of the ones which go untreated far more often, however, is the need for an aesthetic gum lift.
This treatment, also known as a gingivectomy, is something that many people are not even aware of. As a result, numerous patients that our doctors here at Esthetic Smiles treat with this procedure spent years living with a condition which is easily correctable.
What Is a Gum Lift?
This is a procedure in which excess gum tissue at the gumline is removed. This is also referred to as crown lengthening. It is a cosmetic dental service which offers patients a permanent solution to a problem many of them have lived with their whole lives, since it is often a genetic condition. It is referred to as a “gummy smile”.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
The excessive gum tissue which covers the base of the tooth, upwards, creates what is called a gummy smile. This condition gives the appearance of shorter teeth. As stated, this is many times due to a hereditary disorder. However, there are also other common causes of it as well. One example would be some sort of accident or other facial trauma, such as a sports or athletic injury.
Severe teeth grinding can also cause it. Sometimes the patient may not even realize it, such as when they do it in their sleep. If left untreated, this behavior could result in a gummy smile. Other possible causes include upper jaw protrusion, abnormal tooth eruption, vertical maxillary and many others.
What a Gum Lift Entails
The actual procedure can be done with scalpels or lasers. A consultation with our dental professionals will give you the information and understanding to decide which option might be best for you. Regardless of the equipment involved, an incision is made near the gumline to remove the extra gum tissue which is covering the tooth. In certain cases, some of the bone beneath the gums may also need to be altered in order to create and contour the new appearance of the gumline.
Changes It Can Make for Patients
The first and most obvious difference an aesthetic gum lift makes for someone is the immediate improvement to their smile. This factor alone makes the procedure more than worth it. The first thing that many of the patients say following this treatment is how wonderful it is to smile without feeling self-conscious. On top of that, it exposes the parts of the teeth that are meant to be exposed. Being under overgrown gum tissue is an invitation to bacteria and other harmful conditions.
If you suffer from a gummy smile, as well as any other similar issue involving excess or misshapen gums, contact us here at Esthetic Smiles as soon as possible. Our dental experts have the skills and experience necessary to correct your problems with our dental services. Simply dial 805-365-4222 to speak with one of our helpful staff members.
