What is cosmetic gum health?

The main areas of focus when treating for cosmetic gum health are:

• gum recession
• gummy smiles
• bone cavities (vertical bone loss) around a tooth.

Who provides cosmetic gum treatment?

Cosmetic gum treatment is usually provided by periodontists because it is technically demanding and requires specialist training.

What causes gum recession?

The most common causes are incorrect toothbrushing and using a hard toothbrush. Poor plaque control is also a key factor as it causes inflammation of the gums that may in time lead to gum recession. There are many other factors that may be important and these need to be specifically evaluated and discussed before any treatment is undertaken.

Can gum recession be treated?

Yes, gum recession can be successfully treated. Scientific studies show that the method of treatment used by Dr King is predictable and longlasting.

How is gum recession treated?

After a careful assessment of your gums, we will be able to predict how much of the root surface (exposed due to gum recession) can be covered with new gum. We numb your gums first and then take a small piece of gum (a gum graft), usually from the roof of your mouth, and transplant it over the exposed root surface. The gum graft will heal over the root surface, making it look better and reducing the chances of further gum recession in the future.

Does it hurt?

The techniques we use ensure that there is very little post-operative discomfort. Effective pain killers are available if needed to give you comfort after treatment without the need to take time off work.

What is a gummy smile?

When too much gum is showing you have a gummy smile. In some cases too much gum covering the teeth makes the teeth look small. There are many other causes of this condition, so a careful assessment is essential in order to undertake the right treatment to increase the amount of tooth showing. natural smile gummy smile uneven gum line

I am worried that my smile is not quite right. Might I have short teeth?

Often too much gum can show and as a result, some teeth do not look right in relation to other teeth. Sometimes the gum margin can be at different levels and there is loss of symmetry with the smile, the teeth and the gum line. It is essential that an accurate assessment is made before any treatment is undertaken. Dr King will assess your gum line, the alignment of your teeth, your lip line, the size of your teeth and the condition of your gums before discussing possible treatment options.