Shortening Long Teeth - Correcting Gum Recession

This procedure is 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 long, unsightly teeth, a combination of periodontal procedures performed by Dr. Poulos & Dr. Gallez, and cosmetic dentistry performed by your dentist can greatly improve the appearance of your teeth.

• Emdogain
• Alloderm
• BioCover
• Mucograft

Gum Grafting Procedures (Subepithelial connective tissue grafts)

When recession of the gingiva occurs, making teeth look very long, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When gum recession is a problem, gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option.

When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost.

In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as an unsightly appearance of the gum and tooth. Also, gum recession, when significant, can worsen recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel. This leads to root caries and root gouging, bone loss, and eventual tooth loss.

A sub-epithelial connective tissue gingival graft is designed to solve these problems and regenerate the gum tissues back to their original level! A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, or gently moved over from adjacent areas, to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. This gingival graft is placed to cover all the exposed portion of the root. To regenerate the receded bone on the front surface of a tooth, a protein called Emdogain is placed along with the patient’s or donor’s tissue. This complex of native proteins plays a key role in the development of new tooth-supporting tissues, such as the bone, collagen fibers, and new root cementum thus regenerating all the bodies natural tissues that were present before the recession occurred. By mimicking the biological processes of natural tooth development, Emdogain forms an insoluble three dimensional extra-cellular matrix. This matrix remains on the root surface for 2-4 weeks and allows for the selective colonization, proliferation and differentiation of the patient’s own cells.

The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable long term and results in a stable healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth, restoring a natural result cosmetically.

Case Studies