"Procedures like tooth whitening and bonding have received a lot of attention as cosmetic procedures for the smile. What many people do not realize is that there are also procedures which can be performed on the gums to enhance the smiles of people who feel their teeth appear too long or too short," said Dr. Carrie Berkovich.

The answer to correct a gummy smile may be crown lengthening, which is the second most popular cosmetic periodontal procedure for patients under age 50, according to a recent online poll of periodontists. With crown lengthening, excess gum and bone tissue is recontoured to expose more of the natural tooth. This can be done to one tooth to even your gum line, or to several teeth to expose a natural, broad smile.

Conversely, some people feel their teeth appear too long. If your tooth root is exposed because your gums have receded, soft tissue grafts can cover exposed roots, reduce further gum recession and protect vulnerable roots from decay.

Please, take a look at some examples of periodontal plastic surgical procedures that could improve your smile.

Severe gum tissue recession on 10 lower teeth and 6 upper teeth after orthodontic braces, that was treated with connective tissue grafting.
Old free gingival graft.   Laser gingivoplasty of old free gingival graft site.
Treatment of root abrasions. Removal of failing resin restorations and root coverage. Gum augmentation on 4 teeth with a single graft.

If you are interested in having the best smile you can, talk with your dental professional. He or she can evaluate your current smile and provide a range of treatments available to help achieve the look you want. For more information about periodontal disease and cosmetic periodontal procedures, speak with Dr. Carrie Berkovich, or visit the American Academy of Periodontology web site at www.perio.org.