When decay occurs below the gumline, it may be necessary to remove a small amount of bone and gum tissue. Your dentist may ask for this procedure before he or she makes a new crown for your tooth.

Crown Lengthening procedures are done for both restorative dentistry and/or to improve the esthetics of your gum line. General practitioners often refer for crown lengthening procedures prior to restoration of broken or severely decayed teeth. This procedure adjusts the gum and bone level to expose more of the tooth so it can be restored.

Sometimes crown lengthening is done to improve a "gummy" smile because the teeth appear short. The teeth may actually be the proper length but excess gum tissue may be covering these teeth. During this procedure, excess gum and bone tissue is reshaped to expose more of the natural tooth

(Subepithelial connective tissue grafts)

When recession of the gingiva occurs, 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 to the gum and tooth. Also, gum recession, when significant, can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries and root gouging.

A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. 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.

The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root. The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable and results in a stable healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.

When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for us to thoroughly remove plaque and tarter. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these deep pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be needed to restore periodontal health. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require adjustment.

Patients can expect to be comfortable during the procedure. With the exception of slight cold sensitivity and tenderness, discomfort is rare following root planing. Patients can expect to return to work immediately after the appointment.