Plastic Surgery of the Gums

What most patients may not realize is how dramatically their oral and overall health can be affected by gum disease. When left untreated, gingivitis and periodontitis can damage more than just the soft tissue of the gums—they can also harm the bones that anchor the teeth to the jaw.

Likewise, a "gummy smile" can lead to crippling self-consciousness, preventing you from actively seeking your dreams. But with the following cosmetic and restorative gum procedures, Dr. Lawrence Singer and DC Smiles can help you restore your smile’s appearance and functionality, putting you on the road to achieving optimal oral health.

Guided Tissue Regeneration

Guided Tissue Regeneration is a technique Dr. Singer can use to help patients who’ve lost bone or gum tissue as a result of advanced gum disease. Specifically, guided tissue regeneration is designed to help patients preserve their natural teeth by encouraging the regrowth of important bone tissue. To do this, a reabsorable membrane is inserted between a patient’s bone and gum tissue, resulting in a stronger, more stable smile and helping to prevent the spread of gum disease as a result.

Gingivectomy

Dr. Singer may recommend a gingivectomy to patients who’ve sought treatment in the past for gum disease with antibiotics and root planing and scaling. During a gingivectomy, Dr. Singer will use our gentle soft tissue laser to gently remove loose or disease gum tissue. The goal of a gingivectomy is to rid the mouth of pockets between teeth and gums, which can allow bacteria access to the bloodstream and, as a result, the rest of the body.

Crown Lengthening/Gum Recontouring

DC Smiles offers two similar services to help patients who are worried about "gummy smiles." Both are very similar, but crown lengthening is specifically for patients who need help uncovering a smile hidden by excess gum tissue, while gum recontouring lets Dr. Singer correct an uneven gumline. Regardless of which a patient chooses, the goal is create a fuller smile with more pleasing shape.

Osseous Surgery

Osseous surgery is used to reshape the bones that hold one or more teeth in place. It’s specifically for patients who, as a result of periodontitis, have developed holes in the bones around their teeth. Using professional tools, Dr. Singer will reshape the bone, and in some cases add to it with bone grafting material, all to give it a more natural and functional contour.

Call our conveniently located Washington, DC, or Old Town Alexandria, VA, dental office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation or second opinion visit. Dr. Singer will assess your current level of oral health, discuss your goals for your smile, and recommend a unique and practical treatment plan specifically for you. Outside of Washington, DC, and Alexandria, VA, we serve Arlington, Fairfax, Springfield, Burke, and surrounding areas.