Gum Surgery (Improve Gummy Smiles Or Receding Gums)

· Those in Chiang Mai, Thailand looking for gum correction surgery.
· Those with receded gums.
· Those with too much gum tissues.
· Those who wish to cover the exposed root surfaces.
· Those who wish to lengthen the crown.

Gum surgery can be separated into 2 different procedures: Crown lengthening and gum grafting.

Crown lengthening is for the teeth that appear to have too much gum tissue covered and that you wish to expose more teeth crown, making them look bigger and longer.

Gum Grafting is the opposite cosmetic procedure of the crown lengthening; soft tissue will be grafted to cover unattractive tooth roots, reduce gum recession, and to protect the roots from decaying.

Crown lengthening on some occasions is also known as a gummy smile, resulting in short teeth appearance. There are 3 techniques to perform for crown lengthening depending on many factors of your teeth such as aesthetic considerations, the crown to root ratio, the proximity and appearance of the root, the presence of bone loss, the position of the affected tooth, the need for a filling, etc.

The 3 techniques available are:

· Gingivectomy
Removal of gum tissue using a scalpel, a laser or electrocautery (an electrically heated instrument) under local anesthesia; the pain goes away within a few days to 1 week, and complete tissue healing occurs in 4 to 6 weeks.

· Apically repositioned flap surgery
Involves making an incision in the gum to create a flap of tissue. The flap will be lifted to remove the extra tissues and in some cases bone as well, depending on the length you want the exposure of teeth to be. The flap will then be repositioned and stitched.

· Surgical extrusion
Involves moving tooth to the desired location on the gum line; this method is used when a tooth is fractured beneath the gum. Stitches may be utilized to stabilize the tooth; the dentist may also use wire or a splint to anchor the tooth to the surrounding teeth.

A gum grafting procedure focuses on correcting the effect of gum recession, in which teeth appear too lengthy and in many cases roots are exposed. Gum recession causes sensitivity and the wear-off happens slowly without you noticing.

There are 3 techniques available for the treatment:

· Connective tissue grafts
In this procedure, tissue from the roof of the mouth will be removed by making a flap and taking the tissue from underneath the top layer. Stitches will be done to cover the exposed tooth root and also to the flap.

· Free gingival grafts
This is suitable for people with thin gums who require extra tissue to enlarge the gums; tissue will be removed directly from the top layer on the roof of the mouth and stitched onto the existing gum area.

· Pedicle (lateral) grafts
This method is suitable for the ones who have lots of gum tissue growing near the exposed tooth; tissue will be cut partially, keeping one edge attached and it will then be stretched over or down to cover the exposed tooth root.

<Advantages>
· Lengthens crown
· Improves gummy smile
· Improves receding gums
· Enhances overall smile appearance

<Limitations>
· Recovery may take up to 6 weeks, depending on your condition

· Apply a cold compress to the area to help with pain and swelling
· Anti-inflammatory medication may be given for pain relief
· Soft diet consumption is a must after the treatment
· Rinse mouth with water after meals
· Initial healing phase includes shrinking of gums for crown lengthening
· Avoid flossing or brushing at the treatment site for gum grafting
· Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 2 weeks
· Avoid smoking until the wound is completely healed

Q1: Are there any complications for gum grafting?
A1: Complications of gum grafting are minimal and uncommon, which includes bleeding gums, swollen gums, teeth feeling looser (temporary), sensitive teeth, teeth gaps appearing, infection.

Q2: What are the symptoms of infection?
A2: Symptoms include bleeding that continues for over 20 mins despite applying pressure, unexpected pain, swelling and bruising, and fever.

Q3: How long will the healing process be for gum grafting?
A3: Gum grafting takes 1 to 2 weeks to heal fully.

Q4: How long will it take for crown lengthening to heal?
A4: Healing process may take 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the condition.

Q5: Is bleeding normal for crown lengthening?
A5: Minor swelling and bleeding can be expected for the first few days after crown lengthening.

[Clinic Name] Kitcha Dental Clinic
[Location] Chiang Mai, Thailand
[Nearest Stations / Attractions] Located right in the center of Chiang Mai - Chang Lor Road, across Chiang Mai Gate Market. A 10 mins driving distance from Chiang Mai International Airport.
[Clinic Opening Time] Monday - Sunday (9:00AM-8:00PM)