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What’s Gum Plastic Surgery For?

Posted by PCE DENTAL IMPLANT CENTER Sep 14, 2019

This is a thumbnail image of blog What’s Gum Plastic Surgery For?

Have you ever heard of periodontal plastic surgery? It may be something that you’re thinking you need to discuss with a cosmetic dentist. The Woodlands specialist Dr. Kip Saunders offers gum plastic surgery at our office in North Conroe, as a therapeutic and aesthetic service for our patients with gum recession.

Some of the reasons you may want to ask about gum plastic surgery might include:

  • Root exposure
  • Recurring tooth decay
  • Previous periodontal disease
  • Sensitive teeth
  • “Gummy” smiles

Dr. Saunders may also recommend periodontal plastic surgery alongside bone grafting, same day dental implants, or tooth extractions. Conroe patients of our specialty clinic can discuss the pros and cons of gum grafting during their consultations to determine if it’s the right choice for their unique situation.

Gentler Gum Plastic Surgery Options

All of the periodontal plastic surgeries completed by Dr. Saunders are performed with surgical grade materials and AlloDerm. AlloDerm is a surgical matrix that was originally designed to help treat burn victims. It’s extremely safe and effective for even the most delicate areas of your body, such as your smile.

We avoid the use of more invasive gum plastic surgery grafts, such as harvesting tissue from another area of your mouth (usually the palate.) Such techniques tend to be quite painful and require extensive recovery time.

With AlloDerm plastic surgeries, we can help to recover your exposed tooth surfaces and better protect your smile. If you’re currently seeing a cosmetic dentist Conroe, Conroe patients of Dr. Saunders can help to complete your smile makeover by selecting innovative periodontal plastic surgery (which usually isn’t available in conventional dental practices.)

Why Your Teeth Need Healthy Gum Levels

Your gingiva (gums) acts as a protective cover for the roots of your teeth. Without them, bone shrinks away and the root surfaces are exposed. Unlike the crowns of your teeth (the parts exposed above the gums,) roots are not covered in enamel. Rather, they’re highly porous and susceptible to erosion and decay. Even a small amount of root exposure can significantly raise your risk of sensitivity and cavities.

Periodontal plastic surgery helps to ensure that your teeth aren’t exposed to everyday acids and bacteria, so that you can reduce your need for unwanted treatments, such as a tooth extraction in The Woodlands. The Woodlands patients of Dr. Saunders can expect excellent results that help to enhance the overall look of their smile as well as its underlying health.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Exposed root surfaces are often the result of overzealous brushing, chronic teeth grinding, or extensive periodontal disease. Each of these factors can cause the tissues to pull back and result in what looks like “long teeth.”

As part of your gum plastic surgery, Dr. Saunders will work with you to address the cause of your gum recession to prevent relapse or failure of the surgical site.

For more information on periodontal plastic surgery or cosmetic gum treatments, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kip Saunders. Our office in The Woodlands has been serving area residents for over three decades.

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Location

3 Grogans Park Dr Ste 103,
The Woodlands, TX 77380

Office Hours

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2040 N Loop 336 W, Ste 230,
Conroe, TX 77304

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