Periodontics

Crown lengthening can also be performed to restore function when a tooth has broken off, and there is not enough tooth remaining above the gumline for your General Dentist to restore it.

Gingival Grafting / Connective Tissue Grafting

Gingival (gum) grafting procedures are used when the gums have receded (pulled away from the teeth). Gingival grafting/Connective Tissue Grafting procedures are used to repair recession and prevent further recession in the area. The donor tissue is taken from the roof of the patient's mouth and is surgically placed in the area of recession. The graft is then allowed to heal for 6-8 weeks. There is generally mild post-operative pain and discomfort.

Periodontics is the study of gums and other areas around the teeth. Periodontists diagnose and treat gum disease. Dentists will send patients to a periodontist for the treatment of advanced gum disease, or for complications of gum disease, such as lost bone and gum tissue.

Periodontal disease strikes an area just below the gum line called the sulcus. Without proper cleaning and dental visits, plaque and tartar build up in the mouth and collect at the sulcus. Eventually, this buildup, called calculus, will cause the gums to move away from the teeth, forming pockets in the mouth. These pockets fill with even more plaque. This shift can loosen teeth and damage bone.

In advanced stages of gum disease, the periodontist intervenes and clears out the pockets, shrinks them, smoothens the root surfaces and rearranges the gum tissue into a more maintainable form. He or she will then review proper oral care techniques with the patient.

Periodontists require an extra three years of specialization after dental school.

Periodontal Plastic Surgery for Crown Lengthening

Crown Lengthening Procedures can be performed to improve the esthetics of your smile, or to allow the completion of restorative procedures.

If you have an uneven smile, or a "gummy" smile, crown lengthening can be performed to improve the esthetics. Short teeth can be made longer, and an uneven smile line can be repaired.

Periodontal Associates of Chattanooga, P.A.

102 Walnut Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403

Office Phone: 423-756-2450

CHARLES B. FELTS, III, D.D.S., M.S.D.

Diplomate of American Board of Periodontology

Periodontics * Oral Medicine * Dental Implants