The tissues in our gums are like frames offering shape as well as form to the top of our teeth. If the integrity of these gums is compromised in any way, both our smile and confidence are significantly affected. Problems like periodontal disease or poor dental health practices typically lead to gum loss. Cosmetic dental procedures like cosmetic bonding, dental crowns, veneers and dental implants may require gum surgery as part of the complete treatment strategy. Used for correcting gummy smiles, this procedure tends to lengthen the teeth so that less amount of gum is visible when an individual smiles.

A a person ages, the gums may shrink and start receding. In some cases, this problem can result from a bad bite. An experienced dental expert aims at correcting this problem in a way that the patient's smile appears more youthful and confident.

Why Would You Need Gum Surgery?

If a person experiences the problem of a gummy smile (a condition characterized by small length of the crown) or has receding gums, then he/she can benefit from this surgical procedure. Moreover, other problems like uneven gum line, gum loss, gums with a collapsing appearance, dark areas between dental implants, crowns or bridges can also be corrected with the help of this surgical procedure.

A gummy smile typically results from wear of teeth that may be a consequence of teeth grinding, an upper lip that is short or some other problem like abnormally long upper jawbone. People with gummy smiles don't feel confident since their teeth appear too small as compared to their gums while smiling. In some cases, gum recession causes the teeth to have an usually longer look. This problem doesn't only affect a person's smile but it also results in sensitivity of the teeth along with tooth loss.

Which Surgical Option Would Your Dentist Choose? 

Fixing a "Gummy Smile"

This surgical procedure helps in reducing excess bone as well as gum. Tissue removal helps in maintaining the size of teeth and a normal gum line with the help of an instrument like laser for getting rid of the unnecessary tissue. An antibacterial mouth rinse is usually prescribed to be used for two weeks after the surgery.

Fixing a "Long Tooth Smile"

Gum recession that causes the teeth to appear abnormally longer results in exposing the sensitive root surface, making it difficult for the affected individuals to consume cold/hot foods. The procedure involves removal of tissue from the mouth's roof in addition to grafting the tissue onto the gum line. The tissue is used for reinforcing thin gums or filling in specific regions of gum recession.