Cosmetic Procedures

At Southwest Michigan Periodontics, Dr. Brayton and his staff perform advanced cosmetic procedures which include the shaping, reshaping, and replacing of gum tissue in all areas of the mouth to assist patients in achieving the perfect smile. Some of these procedures are also coordinated with the patient’s dentist or other specialist to provide the optimal cosmetic result.

Gum Grafts

With the wear and tear of time, even normal healthy gum tissue can be worn away. This often happens in people with naturally thin tissues, or when the tissues have been weakened by inflammation. Gum tissue can be worn to the point of where it can no longer resist bacteria in the mouth, normal tooth brushing, or even eating. Gum recession can eventually lead to tooth loss as the tooth supporting bone recedes with the gum tissue.

The replacement of missing or insufficient gum tissue is called gingival grafting. Gum grafts are one of the most delicate procedures performed in dentistry today. Gum grafts can help reduce gum recession and bone loss. Aside from a better smile, you may also notice reduced tooth sensitivity and improved dental health after a successful gum graft.

A soft tissue graft can reduce further recession and bone loss. In some cases, it can cover exposed roots to protect them from decay. This may reduce tooth sensitivity and improve esthetics of your smile. Whether you have a graft to improve function or esthetics, patients often receive the benefits of both: a beautiful new smile and improved periodontal health - your keys to smiling, eating and speaking with comfort and confidence.

If you are in need of gum grafts, there is no better choice than Southwest Michigan Periodontics where Dr. Brayton and his staff utilize the most advanced techniques for achieving beautiful results with minimal discomfort. Click to view Before and After examples in our Photo Gallery!

Frenectomy

A lack of gum tissue is sometimes associated with a high muscle attachment, called a frenum. The frenum exaggerates the pull on the gum margin. A frenum is a naturally occurring muscle attachment, normally seen between the front teeth (either upper or lower). It is normal to have a frenum, but it should not pull on the gum margin or recession will occur. If pulling is seen the frenum is surgically released from the gum with a frenectomy procedure. Often this can be performed with a laser for a relatively pain free procedure In certain instances a gum graft is placed in conjunction with a frenectomy procedure to re-establish an adequate amount of gum tissue. Click to view Before and After examples in our Photo Gallery!

Gummy Smiles

Many patients have excess gum tissue on one tooth, or excess tissue on multiple teeth. Excess tissue can be created by medication, genetics, inflammation, or other causes. At Southwest Michigan Periodontics, Dr. Brayton and his staff use both traditional surgery and laser technology to creatively remove and recontour the entire gum line. Often this procedure can be performed with a laser for a relatively pain free procedure. Click to view Before and After examples in our Photo Gallery!

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