Excessive gum tissue affects smile aesthetics. Learn about gummy smile treatment from Norman, OK dentist, Dr. Bobby J. Carmen.
There can be too much of a good thing. While many people don’t have enough healthy gum tissue, some individuals have too much, detracting from the appearance of their smiles. Dr. Bobby Carmen DDS, Norman, OK dentist, treats these gummy smiles to sculpt more pleasing smile aesthetics.
How much is too much?
The perception of how much gum tissue should show when a person smiles varies from individual to individual. Norman cosmetic dentists, such as Dr. Bobby J. Carmen, use this rule of thumb: if more than 3 mm of gum tissue shows when smiling, an individual is likely to be unhappy with how he or she looks.
In fact, many people are so unhappy with their gummy smiles, they do consult a skilled cosmetic dentist to rectify the situation. According to the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute, more than half a million gingivectomies–gum surgeries to remove excess tissue–were performed in the United States in 2005.
Typical gummy smile treatment
When a patient seeks help for a gummy smile from Norman dentist, Bobby J. Carmen DDS, he or she typically desires a comfortable removal of some gum tissue. Also called a gum lift, gingivectomy or crown lengthening procedure, this in-office surgery has traditionally involved cutting with a surgical scalpel. Depending on the case, Dr. Carmen may use this tried and true method. However, he also offers gummy smile treatment with electrosurgery or soft tissue laser.
During the initial consultation, Dr. Carmen performs a thorough oral exam to ensure the health of teeth and gums. If the patient is a good candidate for gingivectomy, he discusses the surgery method and sedation anesthesia options.
Traditional surgeries often require at sedation, but electrosurgery or soft tissue laser may need nothing more than local anesthesia to numb the areas to be treated.
With electrosurgery, Dr. Carmen uses an instrument that applies high-frequency electricity to cut away extra gum tissue. This technique is fast and very precise. The soft tissue laser is also accurate and produces little or no sensation of heat.
The benefits of gummy smile treatment
People who undergo gummy smile treatment enjoy a more aesthetically pleasing gum line and experience more self-confidence when they smile. Additionally, the American Academy of Periodontology (experts in gum tissue) say that patients speak and eat more comfortably and experience less gum disease after gummy smile treatment.
Ask Dr. Bobby J. Carmen
Are you concerned about the appearance of your gums? Don’t be embarrassed. Ask Norman dentist, Bobby J. Carmen, about your gummy smile. Extensively credentialed in general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Carmen will evaluate your oral health and discuss your cosmetic options in a relaxed, in-office consultation. Call his team today for an appointment to learn more.