Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and healthy gums play a crucial role in maintaining that smile. At Mason and Mason Dentistry, we’re committed to ensuring your entire mouth stays healthy, including your gums. In this post, we’ll explore the various gum-related services we offer and why they’re essential for your oral health.

Understanding Gum Health

Before diving into specific treatments, it’s important to understand what healthy gums look like. Healthy gums are typically pink in color, firm to the touch, and fit snugly around your teeth. They don’t bleed when you brush or floss, and they’re not swollen or tender.

Unfortunately, many people experience gum problems at some point in their lives. Common issues include gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated). That’s why we offer a range of gum-related services to address these concerns.

Excessive or Uneven Gums

Some people have what’s often called a “gummy smile,” where an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible when they smile. This condition can be caused by genetics, certain medications, or other factors. While it’s not usually a health concern, many people feel self-conscious about it and seek treatment to improve their smile aesthetics.

Tooth Lengthening

Tooth lengthening, also known as crown lengthening, is a procedure where we remove excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This can be necessary for restorative procedures, such as fitting a crown, or for improving the appearance of short or hidden teeth. The process involves carefully reshaping the gum line and sometimes the underlying bone to create a more balanced, aesthetic smile.

Scaling and Root Planing

When gum disease progresses beyond the early stages, a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing may be necessary. This treatment goes beyond a regular dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line (scaling) and smooth out the tooth roots (planing) to help the gums reattach to the teeth. It’s an effective way to treat gum disease and prevent its progression.

Flap Surgery

In more advanced cases of gum disease, flap surgery might be recommended. During this procedure, we lift back the gums to remove tartar deposits in deep pockets or to reduce the periodontal pocket itself. While it sounds intimidating, this surgery is a powerful tool in fighting severe gum disease and can help save teeth that might otherwise be lost.

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups for Gum Health

While these treatments can be highly effective, the best approach to gum health is prevention. Regular dental check-ups allow us to monitor your gum health and catch any issues early when they’re easiest to treat. We recommend most patients have their gums checked at least twice a year, though some may need more frequent visits.

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Whether you’re concerned about a gummy smile, experiencing symptoms of gum disease, or simply want to ensure your gums stay healthy, we’re here to help. Our range of gum-related services can address a variety of concerns and help you maintain optimal oral health.

Don’t wait until you notice a problem with your gums. Prevention and early treatment are key to maintaining that healthy, happy smile. Contact Mason and Mason Dentistry today to schedule your gum health assessment. Your smile will thank you!