In the past, to replace lost gum tissue from recession, a donor site for tissue, usually the palate, was required for rebuilding the lost gum tissue. With recent advances in processing, human donor tissue can now be utilized to replace the need for the patient’s own donor tissue.
Alloderm was originally designed for burn victims to replace lost skin tissue. Now, periodontists are using Alloderm to rebuild lost gum tissue. Recently, Lifecore reported that over 3 million procedures have been performed using accellular dermal tissue without any transmission of disease, namely AIDS or hepatitis.
Tissue taken from the palate for gum grafting leaves a second wound site from the procedure, which tends to cause moderate discomfort afterwards. The fact that acellular dermal grafting enables the periodontist ample tissue for grafting without a second wound site, tremendously decreases the postsurgical discomfort. Acellular dermal grafting also allows for an exact color blend between surrounding and grafted tissues.
Since tissue is not being removed from the roof of the mouth during acellular dermal grafting:
- The procedure time is reduced
- The amount of bleeding is decreased
- Palatal local anesthesia is not required
Aesthetic Dentistry (Porcelain Veneers)
Recent advances in aesthetic dentistry, such as porcelain veneers, have resulted in techniques that can correct poorly shaped or discolored teeth. Smiles can be rejuvenated with minimally invasive techniques. In this age of cosmetic awareness, porcelain veneers are one way to enhance and rejuvenate a patient’s smile.
The aesthetic conscious dentist who will help you design your new smile is also aware of the necessity to have the gum tissue in harmony with the teeth. Minimally invasive periodontal procedures, such as crown lengthening, are sometimes required to create the desired length of teeth so the ideal shape, form, and symmetry can be obtained.
Dr. Poulos works with many great dentists experienced in cosmetic dentistry.
Case Studies
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Comments:
Before Treatment – Short teeth,
“Gummy Smile”.
Tetracycline stain/spaces between the teeth
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Comments:
After Treatment –
Cosmetic crown lengthening/Porcelain veneers by patient’s general dentist. Teeth now normal size and shape, and natural in appearance.
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