Cosmetic Periodontal Treatment in Memphis TN
Cosmetic Periodontal Treatment in Memphis & Collierville, TN
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Most people think of cosmetic dentistry in terms of teeth whitening, veneers, or orthodontics, but the gums play just as important a role in creating an attractive smile. Periodontists are dental specialists who focus on the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, bone, and connective tissues. Our team offers a wide variety of cosmetic procedures that can correct gum irregularities, restore balance, and improve both the function and appearance of your smile.
Whether your goal is to address receding gums, even out an irregular gumline, lighten dark gum tissue, or support orthodontic treatment, our experienced team can help. Every procedure is carefully planned to ensure natural-looking results that complement your overall dental health.
Gum Biopsy
If you notice a bump, spot, or discolored patch on your gums, it is important to have it evaluated by a specialist. Our periodontists perform minimally invasive laser gum biopsies to identify and diagnose any abnormalities. This procedure allows for precise sample collection with minimal discomfort or bleeding. The tissue sample is then sent to a pathology lab for analysis, ensuring an accurate diagnosis.
We also offer non-invasive oral cancer screening to help detect potential issues at the earliest stage possible. Routine screenings are an essential part of preventive care and give you peace of mind about your oral health. By addressing concerns early, we can provide timely treatment and help protect your long-term health.
Crown Lengthening
A crown lengthening procedure, often referred to as a gum lift, is a cosmetic treatment that reshapes the gumline to reveal more of the natural tooth surface. Many patients seek this procedure to correct a “gummy” smile, where excess gum tissue covers too much of the teeth.
Using advanced laser technology, our periodontists gently remove and contour the excess gum tissue, creating a more balanced and proportionate smile. This approach enhances not only the aesthetics of your teeth but can also make it easier to place restorations such as crowns or veneers. The results are long-lasting and provide a more confident, natural-looking smile.
Lightening of Dark Gums
Some patients have naturally darker or blotchy gum pigmentation caused by genetics, certain medications, or other factors. Laser gum lightening, also called gum depigmentation, can effectively reduce or remove these dark areas, revealing a healthy pink color that enhances the appearance of your smile.
This gentle, non-surgical treatment involves the use of a specialized dental laser that targets the outer layer of pigmented gum tissue without harming surrounding areas. The procedure is quick, virtually painless, and offers immediate visual improvement. Over time, the gums heal with a smooth, even tone that brightens your entire smile.
Gum Grafting
Gum recession exposes the tooth roots, making teeth appear longer and increasing sensitivity to heat, cold, or brushing. Left untreated, receding gums can also contribute to bone loss and tooth instability. Our gum grafting procedures restore missing gum tissue by transplanting a small amount of healthy tissue from another area of the mouth or using donor tissue.
This treatment covers exposed roots, protects the teeth from further damage, and improves overall gum health. Gum grafting can also be performed before dental implant placement to ensure proper gum coverage around the implant for optimal aesthetic and functional results. With proper care, gum grafts can last a lifetime and significantly improve both comfort and appearance.
Orthodontic Uncoveries
When a tooth fails to emerge naturally and becomes trapped beneath the gum or bone, it is referred to as an impacted tooth. Impacted teeth can lead to discomfort, infection, and alignment issues. Our team performs orthodontic uncoveries to gently expose these teeth, allowing your orthodontist to guide them into their proper position within the dental arch.
The procedure is minimally invasive and designed to preserve the surrounding tissue and bone. Working collaboratively with your orthodontist, we ensure that the treatment plan promotes proper tooth alignment, improved bite function, and a healthy, well-balanced smile.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) offers a modern, minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum graft surgery. Instead of cutting or suturing tissue, a tiny entry point is created in the gum through which the existing tissue is loosened and repositioned to cover exposed roots.
This innovative technique offers several advantages, including reduced discomfort, faster healing, and immediate cosmetic improvement. Most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two, and results are both natural-looking and long-lasting. The Pinhole Technique is ideal for patients seeking a quick, comfortable solution to gum recession.
Soft Tissue Ridge Augmentation
When teeth are lost or extracted, the surrounding gum tissue can sometimes collapse or develop indentations, leading to an uneven gumline. Soft tissue ridge augmentation restores the natural contours of the gum to create a smoother, more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
By rebuilding the soft tissue, this procedure ensures that dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or implants look natural and proportional. The enhanced gum contour not only improves appearance but also supports better oral hygiene by reducing areas where food and bacteria can accumulate.
Wilckodontics
Wilckodontics is an advanced orthodontic technique that accelerates tooth movement by stimulating the bone around the teeth. Dr. Godat is the only Wilckodontics-certified periodontist in the Mid-South, making our practice a leader in this innovative approach.
This treatment works by enhancing bone metabolism, allowing teeth to move more quickly and efficiently during orthodontic treatment. Patients often achieve straighter smiles in a fraction of the usual time required for traditional braces or aligners, all while maintaining excellent periodontal health. Wilckodontics is ideal for adults who want faster orthodontic results without compromising safety or stability.
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)
In some complex orthodontic cases, traditional braces or aligners alone may not provide enough control to move certain teeth precisely. Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) serve as small, biocompatible anchors that allow orthodontists to apply specific forces for improved accuracy and efficiency.
Our periodontists place these miniature devices quickly and comfortably, ensuring they provide the stability needed for targeted tooth movement. Once treatment is complete, the devices are easily removed without discomfort. TADs can significantly enhance orthodontic outcomes for patients with challenging alignment issues.
Schedule a Cosmetic Periodontal Consultation
At Periodontal Associates of Memphis, we are dedicated to helping every patient achieve a confident, healthy smile through advanced periodontal care. Our cosmetic treatments are designed to improve both the appearance and function of your gums and teeth, ensuring results that look beautiful and feel natural.
Whether you want to correct gum recession, reshape your gumline, or enhance your overall smile, our experienced periodontists will create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals. Contact our Memphis or Collierville office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more balanced smile.