Tissue Grafts

Gum recession can lead to exposure of sensitive root surfaces, and is a common complaint.  If your gums recede we can still restore them to proper form and function.  Recession can happen because of infection, tooth grinding, or rarely from aggressive toothbrush use.  

Tissue grafts are recommended to prevent further recession and bone loss. They can also be used to cover exposed/sensitive root surfaces.  This procedure is completed in the office in about an hour and a half, is very predictable, and has a short recovery time.

Crown-Lengthening Procedure

If your tooth is broken or decayed near or below the gumline there may not be enough tooth structure to properly restore your tooth. If we feel we can have long term success we will recommend a crown-lengthening procedure. This surgical procedure allows us to adjust the level of the gum and bone, exposing more of your tooth and thereby allowing us to restore your tooth to its original form and function. 

Pocket Elimination Surgery

Your gums should fit snuggly around each tooth. If you have advanced periodontal disease, deep pockets form between the teeth and the gums, and often cannot be cured with non-surgical therapy.  You may need some type of surgical procedure. 

The longer we wait to treat deep periodontal disease, the more bacteria build up inside the resistant pockets.  We prefer to start with non surgical treatment and then after a year make decisions on which areas (if any) need surgical treatment.  We don’t like to wait for the bone loss to become more severe because it clouds the outcome. 

During the pocket elimination surgery, we will fold back the gum tissue, remove the diseased tissue and bacteria underneath, and then place the tissue back at a new level which will allow you to keep the area clean afterwards. 

The end result is a newly healthy environment that allows you to properly clean your teeth.  This, in turn, prevents further damage, and increases the chances of keeping your own natural teeth.