FRENECTOMY
A frenectomy is a procedure designed to eliminate unfavorable muscle attachments between teeth. A frenectomy can be an aid in the retention of teeth that have been moved with orthodontic treatment. It can also improve access for removing plaque and it can help increase the amount of protective gum tissue around teeth.
FIBEROTOMY
A fiberotomy is a procedure designed to aid in the retention of teeth that have been moved with orthodontic treatment. This is done by detaching fibers from the teeth. The fibers will quickly reattach to the teeth; but because the teeth are in the correct position, the fibers will not interfere in the retention of those teeth.
SOFT TISSUE GRAFTS
GINGIVAL GRAFT
At times patients will lose the protective gum tissue around some of their teeth. This usually results in exposure of some of the root and makes the tooth quite vulnerable to further loss of gum tissue and supporting bone. Root exposure can result in tooth discomfort, or even tooth loss. A gingival graft procedure is designed to add protective gum tissue to teeth. Adding protective gum tissue helps prevent recession that could expose the tooth’s root.
CONNECTIVE TISSUE GRAFT
It is not uncommon for a patient to lose all or some of the protective gum tissue around teeth that show when they smile or speak. This results in exposure of the roots and makes teeth look longer. A connective tissue graft is designed to cover as much of the exposed root as possible with protective gum tissue. Doing this helps protect the teeth and it also gives the teeth a more normal and appealing appearance.
CROWN EXPOSURE
When teeth have not erupted or have delayed eruption into the mouth; the un-erupted teeth may compromise the outcome of orthodontic treatment. When this occurs, a crown exposure is performed. This procedure aids the movement of the un-erupted tooth into its proper position. An orthodontic bracket may be placed in conjunction with the crown exposure to facilitate the movement.
FUNCTIONAL CROWN LENGTHENING
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that re-contours the gum tissue and often the underlying bone surrounding one or more teeth so that an adequate amount of healthy tooth is exposed. Crown lengthening is often used as part of a treatment plan for a tooth that is to be fitted with a crown. This procedure provides the necessary space between the supporting bone and crown, preventing the new crown from damaging gum tissues and bone.
Your dentist or periodontist may also recommend crown lengthening in order to make a restorative procedure possible. If a tooth is badly worn, decayed or fractured below the gum line, crown lengthening adjusts the gum and bone levels to gain access to more of the tooth so it can be restored.
What are the benefits of this procedure?
Functional crown lengthening is an important part of an integrated effort to optimize your health, appearance, comfort and function. A beautiful new smile and improved periodontal health are your keys to smiling, eating and speaking with comfort and confidence.
2001 copyright. The American Academy of Periodontology
For more information on Functional Crown Lengthening and the American Academy of Periodontology visit www.perio.org
