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Dr. Richard Shanaman, P.C.
: The Gummy Smile
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Dr. Richard H. Shanaman, P.C.
1719 Penn Ave
Wyomissing Hills
Reading,
PA
19609
(610) 678-4531
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Four patients all had a common problem. Their teeth appeared too short. This problem is not uncommon and can result from gingival irritation due to medications, dental appliances such as braces, or altered passive eruption, which simply means the gum does not recede to a normal level once teeth have erupted.
If there are habits such as clenching or grinding (bruxism), excessive wear can produce teeth that appear too short. The problem is one that can often be corrected with dental restorations such as crowns, onlays and veneers.
More frequently, however, a surgical procedure is required.
Four cases requiring crown lengthening surgery are shown below.
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Case 1
Case 1
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This patient
only needed crown lengthening to create a more natural and
attractive smile.
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Case 2
Case 2
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This patient
has amelogenisis imperfecta - a hereditary defect in tooth
enamel formation, characterized by vertical grooving, pitting, and a
yellowish-brown discoloration. Her situation required veneers as well
as surgery.
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Case 3
Case 3
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This patient
had existing porcelain fused to metal crowns, which did not appear
natural. Placing all ceramic crowns after surgery produced a beautiful
natural smile.
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Case 4
Case 4
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Crown
lengthening surgery and veneers helped close the spaces between this
young man's teeth. He now readily smiles as a result of improved
self-esteem and confidence.
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