What's in a Smile

Created on 25th September 2008

Top oral surgeon, Dr Psenicka of Swiss Smile takes us through what can be achieved in combating receding gums and the latest implantation techniques

What makes the perfect smile? For all those that think that teeth whitening is the beginning and end of cosmetic dentistry we take a look at the different procedures and treatments that can be utilised to give you a smile makeover.

Covering of gum recession

Gum recession (receding gums) refers to a loss of gum tissue resulting in an exposure in the roots of the teeth. Recession usually occurs in response to overaggressive brushing, inadequate brushing or flossing, periodontal disease or lip or tongue piercings. But it can also result from injury or as the natural progression of thin and fragile gum tissue. It is a common problem in adults over the age of 35, but may also occur in teens.

Recession may make the teeth very sensitive to cold foods or drinks, sweet foods or drinks when chewing or when these just touch the teeth. It may make the teeth more vulnerable to root cavities

Treatment is needed when the gums or teeth are sensitive or when plaque accumulates and is difficult to remove. Treatment involves a grafting procedure, in which soft tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth or from donor tissues and stitched to the area.

Depending on the shape of the gum recession and the levels of bone around the teeth, areas of gum recession can be regenerated with new gum tissue using a variety of gum grafting ‘periodontal plastic surgery' procedures performed by an oral surgeon or specialist.

These procedures are typically completed under local anesthesia. There may involve repositioning of adjacent gum tissue to cover the recession, or use of a free graft of gingival or connective tissue from the roof of the mouth. Healing from such procedures requires 2-4 weeks.

The aim of the dentist is to keep your smile for a lifetime. The purpose of covering the exposed root is not only cosmetic, but also to prevent further recession, tooth sensitivity due to exposed roots and tooth decay on exposed root surfaces.

Implantation
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root replacement and is used in prosthetic dentistry to support restorations that resemble a tooth or group of teeth.

There are a number of restorative options for the treatment of missing teeth. The most functionally effective and durable is an implant. People who have lost teeth might feel too self-conscious to smile or talk.

Implants are very strong and are a permanent solution to tooth loss - also for the replacement of multiple or all missing teeth. A typical  implant consists of a titanium screw (resembling a tooth root). A precision hole is carefully drilled into jawbone and the implant is installed in the bone. Implant surgery is performed with local anesthesia by oral surgeons or specialists.

A single implant procedure takes about an hour, sometimes longer. Multiple implants can be installed in a single surgical session lasting several hours. Once the implant has been placed it is left to heal and integrate with the jawbone for between 6 weeks to 6 months. The bone tissue will grow and anchor itself into the microscopic rough surface of the implant.

During this ‘healing period' patients are given temporary teeth or continue to wear dentures.

Dental implants have been used for over 30 years to replace missing teeth and they can last a lifetime depending upon how you look after them. Like any other restoration your implant-supported teeth can still be damaged by trauma and affected by gum disease and poor oral hygiene. CSMUK