Tissue Contouring in Indianapolis and Fishers, IN

A high gum line can make the teeth appear too large and a low gum line can make the teeth appear too small. With periodontal plastic surgery at Martin Dentistry in Indianapolis, Indiana, the gum tissue can be contoured or grafted to a normal, healthy appearance if the gum lines make a person’s smile appear gummy or expose the roots of the teeth to infections. Often caused by gum diseases, excess, uneven, or insufficient gum tissue can create more complex dental issues if not treated. Periodontal plastic surgery performed by general and cosmetic dentists, Dr. Matthew Martin, Dr. Stephanie Martin, and Dr. Lynn Marshall can either remove excess gum tissue and contour the gum line to a normal appearance or use gum tissue grafts to fill in gaps and areas where the gum line is above the tooth root.

An uneven gum line or gummy smile is fixed by removing the excess gum tissue as needed and then sculpting the gum line to look natural and even. For patients who have a high gum line that makes their teeth look too long or exposes the tooth root, gum graft surgery is used to lower the gum line and protect the roots from decay. Gaps in the gums are often caused by tooth loss and this is usually fixed with ridge augmentation and a dental implant.

After gum contouring or gum grafting procedures, the patient will feel some discomfort and swelling. Gum contouring generally only takes one day for recovery and patients are advised to consume soft food and liquids for several days. Gum grafting surgery may require 3 – 7 days for recovery and patients will be limited on their activity and diet to prevent the stitches from opening. The dentist may prescribe antibiotics or pain medication if needed.

Do you have a gummy smile, long teeth, or an uneven gum line? Reveal a beautiful, healthy smile with periodontal plastic surgery to change the size and shape of your gums.