Aesthetics and health in gums: The 5 most preferred procedures
Healthy and aesthetic gums are one of the most important complements to a natural smile; however, gum problems can negatively affect both appearance and oral health. Fortunately, it is possible to resolve these issues with many aesthetic gum procedures today, achieving ideal results from both a functional and visual perspective.
12punto
The most natural state of healthy gums is undoubtedly a light pink color and an appearance that hugs the teeth like lace. However, conditions such as asymmetrical gum levels, teeth of different lengths, or the gums appearing more than normal can create aesthetic problems. In such cases, aesthetic procedures targeting the gums are sought.
These aesthetic procedures can also be used for situations such as dark pigmentation on the gums due to smoking or genetic reasons, exposure of tooth roots as a result of gum recession, and the need for soft tissue support after implant treatment.
The correct gum form is also critically important for teeth to remain healthy in the mouth and to be protected from infections. Because the goal in gum aesthetics is to achieve a natural and harmonious appearance from an aesthetic standpoint while also protecting gum health.
For color and form disorders caused by inflammation of the gums, the first step in treatment is to resolve this issue. However, in the next step, the physician and patient can evaluate and plan aesthetic procedures together. In this context, you can see what can be done for the gums with the 5 most frequently applied procedures according to the patient's needs in the list below:
1. Gingivectomy: Gum overgrowths and excessively visible gum tissues are corrected (Gingivectomy). After the procedure, the gum margins are also smoothed.
2. Crown lengthening: The gum and the bone tissue around the tooth are surgically shaped.
3. Lip repositioning: The lip is repositioned to reduce the amount of gum visible (Lip repositioning).
4. Covering exposed root surfaces: Root surfaces exposed as a result of gum recession are covered with connective tissue taken from inside the mouth (usually from the palate). Thus, both sensitivity is reduced and aesthetic improvement is achieved (Connective Tissue Graft).
5. Depigmentation: Dark brown discolorations on the gums are cleaned with laser or surgical methods (Depigmentation) to achieve a natural color.
WHAT ARE THE RECOVERY TIMES IN GUM AESTHETICS?
Dr. Ekin Beşiroğlu Turgut, a faculty member at Istanbul Okan University Faculty of Dentistry, says that recovery times vary according to the treatment applied, and the initial recovery period lasts an average of 10-14 days.
Pointing out that pink aesthetic applications provide significant gains in terms of both health and aesthetics, Dr. Turgut also reminds that the dentist will decide which procedure is suitable for the individual after a detailed examination and evaluation.