Gum Rejuvenation

What are Gum Rejuvenation potential benefits?

• Greater patient satisfaction
• An esthetic frame for restorative procedures
• Excellent cosmetic blending of tissue colors and contours
• Appropriate tooth length for a fuller, brighter smile
• Gingival symmetry and harmony
• An adequate width and thickness of gingiva to prevent further recession
• More hygienic tissue contours
• Better emergence profile for pontics
• Regeneration of lost or deficient tissue
• Protection of exposed root structure from sensitivity, erosion, and decay
• Improved restorative access and retention
• Amalgam tattoo correction
• Minimal surgical tissue trauma and faster healing
• Improved predictability of surgical results
• Enhanced orthodontic treatment results

Why are restorative dentists increasingly recommending periodontal plastic surgery for their patients?

In recent years, the demand for cosmetic den­tistry has steadily increased. This has been accompanied by higher patient expectations for an aesthetically pleasing final result. Even the finest restorative treatment can be an aesthetic disappointment if the periodontal component is not factored into the total treatment plan. With sophisticated surgical procedures, the periodontist can provide an ideal gingival frame for restorative dentistry. General den­tists, prosthodontists and orthodontists are increasingly coordinating treatment with the periodontist to achieve the highest level of health, symmetry and aesthetics. Often a collab­orative effort can be the difference that makes the difference in patient satisfaction.

What is the appropriate treatment sequence for aesthetic periodontal procedures?

Preprosthetic communication between the periodontist and the restorative dentist is necessary. Periodontal procedures are usually completed prior to the initiation of restorative treatment. In some cases periodontal surgery is appropriate while the patient has provisional restorations. Periodontal procedures should be completed before impressions are taken for final restorations.

What is the expected longevity of Esthetic Periodontal Surgery?

The long-term stability of periodontal plastic surgery is excellent. As with other periodontal procedures, long-term success is greatly enhanced by regular professional maintenance, effective plaque control and a stable, atraumatic occlusion.

What are the clinical indications for aesthetic periodontal procedures?

There are typically four applications for periodontal plastic surgery:

• Clinical crown lengthening to expose more of the teeth for an attractive smile or improved retention and restorative access.
• Root Coverage procedures to protect the roots from erosion, decay and sensitivity while providing an attractive, symmetric appearance.
• Establishment of a functional zone of attached, keratinized gingiva to prevent recession.
• Augmentation procedures to reestablish normal tissue contours for a more attractive and hygienic restorative result.

Periodontal plastic surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia and some form of sedation, if necessary.