Prescription Services
Your dentist may refer you to Dr. Aufderheide for a crown extension, gum grafting, or other periodontal need.

Crown Extensions: A crown extension (also called crown lengthening) is a procedure that re-contours the gum and bone surrounding one or more teeth so that an adequate amount of healthy tooth is exposed. Your restorative dentist can then use this solid tooth structure as a foundation for a new restoration. This procedure also provides the necessary space between the new restoration and the supporting bone of the tooth, thus preventing any damage to the gum tissues and bone from a “foreign body reaction.”

Before	After

Gum Grafting: Gum grafting is often needed to build up the necessary zone of thick tissue around the tooth. The primary concern of the loss of this tissue is not the aesthetic concern of root recession, but the eventual loss of bone around the tooth. Gum grafting around areas of recession can predictably rebuild the attachment, and in most cases, cover the root as well.

Gingival Cosmetics: The gums are to the teeth as a frame is to a painting. Beautiful white crowns and veneers do not turn out so well when surrounded by red, puffy gums or blue margins. Listen to your restorative dentist if he recommends a periodontal consultation prior to cosmetic restorations. It is impossible to do “cosmetic dentistry” without accounting for the gingival tissues. Periodontal procedures can be done to enhance the smile. “Gummy smiles” can usually be easily corrected to expose beautiful teeth. Gum recession can be corrected with soft tissue augmentation procedures.

Dr. Aufderheide will be happy to address your periodontal concerns and work with you and your dentist to ensure optimal oral health for a lifetime.