Cosmetic Dentistry: My Teeth Look Too Long and I Can't See My Gums! What Can I Do?

If you have receding gums due to periodontal disease and your teeth look like they belong to a vampire, there is something you can do to correct the problem. Using different forms of periodontal plastic surgery, those of us in the cosmetic field of dentistry will aid you in your quest so that you can once again show your smile to the world.

Not only is this condition a cosmetic concern but it can also affect the good health of your teeth and gums. The end results of this condition can be gum irritation, sensitivity to the surface of the root, bone loss, root caries or even loss of one or more teeth.

Many advances have been made as to techniques and materials used to improve not only the appearance of your teeth and smile, but the comfort level of the surgery involved as well which can be a major concern for many patients.

Receding Gums: One Cause of the Appearance of Long Teeth

When our gums have receded because of periodontal disease, the teeth have the appearance of being much longer than the norm. And though it is not attractive, this is not always the main concern of those of us in the field of dentistry. Receding gums expose the surface of the root which can cause sensitivity. Root caries and accumulation of plaque and calculus (calcified plaque) can result when your condition is not addressed. When the condition is allowed to worsen it can cause bone loss and loose teeth. In many cases, your condition can be addressed surgically by using a small transplant of tissue from the roof of the mouth or the gums.

Papilla Regeneration

This small section of the gum is often overlooked until black triangles or holes appear between your teeth. This often indicates that the tissue between your teeth has been lost. Major advances have been made, but it is still the toughest surgery we as dentists must perform.

Connective Tissue Skin Graft

For receding gums that have advanced to more than just one or two teeth, covering root surfaces that are overexposed is not much of a challenge for today's cosmetic dentist practitioner. After the underlying periodontal disease has been controlled and the bone is healthy, tissue from the palate can be grafted and placed so that the area of recession is covered. In six months time, a complete recovery can be enjoyed along with the return of your gum tissue to normal levels. Your teeth look like they once did before periodontal disease advanced.

If you are unhappy with your smile and have brought your periodontal condition under control, talk with your dentist about cosmetic surgical procedures that can be done to improve the look of your smile. Our profession has come a long way in recent years with different methods to improve the look of your smile and at the same time address the overall health of your teeth and gums. Find a good cosmetic dentist in your area to give you a thorough exam and a treatment plan that will be beneficial to you and your teeth.