Periodontics is the specialized area of dentistry that is devoted to the supporting the teeth, bones, gums, and surrounding tissues. Periodontists complete an additional three years of specialty training beyond the four years in dental school. When we think of periodontists, the first thing that comes to mind is their skill and knowledge in the treatment of gum disease. The next thing that may come to mind is their expertise in placing dental implants. The area of periodontics in Calgary that is seldom considered is cosmetic periodontology.
Your teeth are framed by your gums, and changing their appearance can add beauty to your smile. No amount of work on your teeth will give you your best possible smile if there are lingering issues with your gums. The health and aesthetics of your gums are just as important as the teeth if you wish to achieve a truly beautiful smile. Cosmetic periodontal surgery (also called periodontal plastic surgery) has advanced at a dramatic rate in the past few decades. Gentler techniques have been perfected in recent years that give exceptionally beautiful results.
The health as well as the size and shape of gum tissue greatly affect the appearance of your smile. Too little gum tissue can make the teeth look too long and expose the unattractive roots. Too much gum tissue can create a “gummy” smile and make teeth look too short to suit the facial frame. Without the best shape, thickness, and amount of healthy gum tissue, your smile isn’t going to reach its ultimate best.
There are several different procedures Periodontists use to improve the look of your smile by correcting various concerns. An uneven gum line or a “gummy smile” can be corrected with a procedure to reduce and sculpt your gum line. If your teeth appear too long, or the roots are exposed, soft tissue grafts can augment the existing tissue to cover the roots and frame your teeth better. If indentations in the jawbones and gums are the concern, a procedure called ridge augmentation can correct the problem.
If you believe that your gums are keeping your smile from looking its best, turn to periodontics in Calgary. Call Sierra Dental to learn what periodontics can do to give you that ultimate smile.