Periodontal Plastic Surgery

What is a gummy smile?

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought that your teeth looked too small? This common trait is known as a “gummy smile.” With a gummy smile, although your teeth appear short, they may be covered with too much gum tissue. We can correct this by performing the periodontal plastic surgery procedure called crown lengthening for aesthetics.

What causes a gummy smile?

• Overbite
• Overgrowth of maxilla
• Extra lip movement
• A short upper lip
• Teeth that don’t rise above the bone
• Gums that don’t recede with age

How is the procedure performed?

Periodontal Plastic Surgery corrects the ratio of gum to tooth by shaping the soft gum and bone tissue to create a more balanced smile. During the procedure, the gums and bone are sculpted to reveal previously hidden teeth. Anesthesia ensures that the procedure is pain-free, and usually, post-op pain is sufficiently managed by over-the-counter pain medications at home.

Why is the procedure performed?

The procedure is performed to make your smile look great. In addition to keeping you healthy, we consider it part of our job to make sure that you feel good about the way you smile and look. It’s important to be confident with your smile in today’s world. A great smile is an integral part of success in a professional and social setting.

Self-confidence and general health are strongly linked. When you smile, the brain releases endorphins that promote happiness and good mental health.

Another cosmetic procedure is the soft tissue graft. It is used to cover unattractive tooth roots, reduce gum recession, and protect the roots from decay and eventual loss.

Give us a call at Northville Periodontist Office Phone Number 734-542-9904 for help with your gummy smile. We will help you explore all of your treatment options.

Browse Dr. Zakaria’s book to see the results Dr. Zakaria can achieve. More pictures are available on our Facebook albums and Instagram pages.