Cosmetics
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Many people have what is known as a “gummy smile” with short or stubby teeth. More often than not, in such situations, the sizes of teeth are just fine. The problem is with the gums. There is simply too much tissue and it is hiding the beautiful teeth that lie beneath. Dr. Holtzclaw can correct this problem with a cosmetic crown lengthening procedure. In this procedure, the excessive and bulky gum tissue is removed and the teeth beneath are exposed to their full extent. In many cases, this procedure is done in conjunction with a restorative dentist placing porcelain veneers or ceramic crowns after the gums have healed.
Have you ever wondered if you have gummy smile? The next time you are in front of a mirror, smile and closely examine what you see. With a normal smile, you should only see the tips of your upper gum tissue as it extends between the teeth. You should not see any additional gum tissue on the top or bottom teeth when you smile. Confirm this by looking at your favorite magazine. You will notice that when people smile, very little gum tissue is displayed.
Cosmetic crown lengthening procedures may be accomplished under simple local anesthesia, just like when you get a filling on a tooth. The procedure can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour depending on the number of teeth involved.
If you have been told or think that you have a gummy smile, please contact Dr. Holtzclaw and his expert Lone Star Periodontics team at 512-453-1600 for a consultation.
Lone Star Periodontics & Dental Implants. Dan Holtzclaw, DDS, MS. Board certified periodontist and dental implant surgeon. 711 W. 38th Street, Suite G5. Austin, TX 78705. 512-453-1600