Dr. David Summerford, DMD of North Alabama Periodontics in Huntsville, AL
These procedures are a predictable way to cover unsightly, sensitive or exposed root surfaces and to prevent future gum recession. If you are unhappy with the appearance of short unsightly teeth this can be greatly improved by a combination of gum lift surgery by Dr. Summerford and cosmetic dentistry by your dentist.Gum Lifts
Gum Lifts are often necessary for the following reasons: Gummy smile (altered passive eruption) where the gingival tissues failed to recede as much as they should have. This results in short appearing teeth or a gummy smile. During this procedure, excess gum and bone tissue is reshaped 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.When looking at what is considered to be a beautiful smile, it's not only nice teeth that you see; you also see a symmetrical gum line with an aesthetically pleasing ratio of gum-to-tooth. If your teeth remain partially covered by your gum tissue, we can remove enough of this excess gum to showcase your teeth, and create the right proportion for your smile.
Asymmetry of gum tissue is another common problem, when there are one or two teeth that have a lower gum line than the rest of the teeth in your smile. This is distracting and takes away from the beauty of your smile. Evening off the gum lines of these teeth will make the whole smile look better, bringing the ratio of gum-to-tooth closer to ideal.
