443 Joaquin Ave | San Leandro, CA 94577

Cosmetic Dentist Stephen J Moy D.M.D. | Dentist In San Leandro, CA

What's Cosmetic Gum Surgery and Why Would I Need It?

Could you benefit from cosmetic gum surgery? Dr. Stephen Moy, your San Leandro, CA, dentist, shares information on this cosmetic cosmetic gum surgerydentistry procedure and explains when it's recommended.

Who needs cosmetic gum surgery?

Do you dislike the way your gummy smile looks? Sometimes gum tissue can cover too much of the surface of your teeth, resulting in a gummy smile. The condition can occur due to genetics, abnormal eruption of your teeth, shortening of your teeth due to grinding or wear, or can happen if your upper lip moves too much when you smile. Although a gummy smile isn't harmful in most cases, it can affect your self-esteem. Surgery to reveal more of your teeth offers a simple way to boost your self-confidence.

Gum surgery with your San Leandro doctor may also be needed if gum disease has caused your gums to recede, exposing your roots. Deep cleaning plaque and tartar from the roots may be all that's needed to correct the problem, but if your gums don't grow back, you may benefit from surgery.

What's involved in cosmetic gum surgery?

Both lasers and scalpels can be used to reshape and recontour your gum line. During the procedure, the extra gum tissue will be removed, revealing a larger percentage of the surface of your teeth. It's important to have realistic expectations before you undergo surgery. Although cosmetic gum surgery can be very effective in improving your smile, the change may not be as dramatic as you had hoped. Your dentist will show you photographs and images that will illustrate just how much the procedure will change your smile.

Cosmetic gum surgery may also be combined with lip surgery or botox treatments. After lip surgery, your upper lip won't rise as much when you smile, which will help hide your gums. Botox injections offer a temporary solution to the problem. Injections are placed on either side of your nose and relax the muscles that control your lips.

If gum recession is your problem, your dentist may recommend a gum graft. During the procedure, gum tissue will be sewn to your gum line. The tissue may be obtained from a donor or from the roof of your mouth.

Are you concerned about a gum issue? Cosmetic gum surgery may be the ideal solution to your problem. Call Dr. Stephen Moy, your San Leandro, CA, dentist, at (510) 351-4030 to schedule an appointment to find out if you're a good candidate for this cosmetic surgery procedure.


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