Category: Blog/ News

Some individuals are born with excessive gum tissue covering an abnormally large portion of their teeth. When these people smile, usually much of their gum tissue is revealed and their teeth appear unusually small in comparison. This condition is known colloquially as a “gummy smile.” Fortunately, for people concerned with the appearance of this condition, a relatively simple procedure called an “esthetic crown lengthening” can remedy this problem.

To improve appearance, more tooth material must be uncovered than is currently available below the gum line. We can use an esthetic crown lengthening to achieve this outcome. This procedure is a gentle cosmetic process that contours the gum line and removes excessive gingiva (gum tissue).

An esthetic crown lengthening involves accessing the area below the gum line and increasing the amount of healthy tooth material exposed. Before beginning the procedure, the area is numbed. Then we remove excess tissue from the tooth surface and sculpt the gum line. This procedure lengthens the appearance of the tooth, making the teeth appear larger.

Esthetic crown lengthening can be performed on a single tooth or on an entire gum line. Additionally, we can utilize laser technology as opposed to a traditional scalpel. Patients who choose to receive a crown lengthening using a laser experience reduced bleeding, heightened comfort, less pain and swelling, and shortened healing time. Additionally, the procedure is performed in one sitting with little to no downtime.

In conclusion, an esthetic crown lengthening is an effective remedy for the appearance of small teeth, excessive gingiva, and an uneven gum line. Are you unhappy with your smile? Give us a call at (919) 518-8222. We’d love to discuss your options with you. Serving the greater Triangle area – Raleigh, Cary, Apex, and Wake Forest.

For more information on this topic, listen to the Gum Guru Podcast by clicking the link below:

Three Painless Ways To Improve Your Smile

Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Our offices will be closed from December 26th thru January 2nd so our team can enjoy the holidays with family and friends. We will reopen on January 3rd.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving. In observance of the holiday, our offices will be closed on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

As adults age, they may notice a variety of oral health changes, from mild tooth decay to oral cancer. There are many possible causes of declining oral health. Fortunately, there are solutions as well.

Oral Health Changes

Some common dental health issues for older adults include gum disease (a.k.a. periodontal disease). This condition is an infection that impacts the bone and tissue supporting the teeth. It is quite common in mature adults.

Did you know that Dr. Singletary, as suave as he appears, was an aggressive snorer until a couple of years ago? Believe it or not, he is the reason we began our Sleep Solution Program here at North Raleigh Perio. In no uncertain terms, his wife let him know his snoring (and associated sleep apnea) was a big problem. Thanks to treatment, he no longer snores, and he’s enjoying more energy and a happier marriage.

Snoring is more than an annoyance; it is the most common sign of sleep-related breathing problems and a warning sign for a more serious, chronic health problem called obstructive sleep apnea. Check out these red flags to see if you think you may have sleep related breathing issues:

As any expecting mother can attest, pregnancy causes a lot of changes to one’s body, including to one’s oral health. Mothers may notice changes to their gum tissue, including heightened sensitivity, inflammation, or swelling. These symptoms can be indicative of the early stages of gum disease known as gingivitis. In fact, at least sixty to seventy-five percent of women who are with child may develop gingivitis during gestation. But what does bearing children have to do with one’s gingival health?

A common sign of gum disease is inflammation, and the hormonal changes that accompany child-bearing intensify this symptom. Hormonal changes experienced during pregnancy cause the body to circulate more blood than usual throughout the body, including to the gums. In turn, this increased blood flow can cause gum tissue to become more tender and swollen.

As the trimesters progress, gingival swelling will grow worse if not attended to. Not only is inflamed gum tissue uncomfortable, but it increases the risk of developing a bacterial infection. This is because the capillaries in swollen gums make an ideal entry point for bacteria to easily enter the bloodstream through the mouth and spread throughout the body.

This is especially problematic for pregnant mothers, because bacteria that enters the bloodstream through gum tissue can bypass the placental barrier that guards the passage of substances between a mother and her baby in the womb. Such bacteria may have a direct impact on the uterus, resulting in premature birth and a low birth weight.

Consequently, it is crucial to recognize the importance of maintaining good periodontal health and developing a consistent oral hygiene regimen. Such habits include proper and regular brushing (insert spear video titled “Proper Brushing Technique”) and flossing (insert spear video titled “Proper Flossing Technique”) techniques.

In addition, expectant mothers should be on the lookout for signs of gum disease such as tender, inflamed, and swollen gums, persistently bad breath, and a lingering bad taste in the mouth, and should seek early treatment should any of these symptoms manifest.

Have questions? Give us a call at 919-518-8222! Serving the greater Triangle area – Raleigh, Cary, Apex, and Wake Forest.

For more information on this topic, listen to the Gum Guru Podcast by clicking the link below:

Oral Health Myth Busters