Oral Plastic Surgery
What is Oral Plastic Surgery?
Oral plastic surgery involves specialized procedures that improve the function, health, and appearance of your gums, teeth, and surrounding structures. Whether you’re addressing gum recession, excess gum tissue, or bone loss, oral plastic surgery can restore the beauty and functionality of your smile. Using advanced techniques, oral plastic surgery provides long-lasting, natural-looking results that are tailored to your unique needs.
As a board-certified periodontist in Houston, Dr. Roberto Porras has the advanced training and experience needed to perform these delicate procedures, helping you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile.
Why Choose a Periodontist for Oral Plastic Surgery?
A periodontist is a dental specialist with advanced training in the regeneration of gum and bone tissue. Whether you're looking to restore lost gum tissue due to periodontal disease, enhance the appearance of your gum line, or prepare your mouth for dental implants, a periodontist is the expert you need. Periodontists are trained to perform oral plastic surgery procedures that enhance both the function and aesthetics of your smile, with precise care and customized solutions.
Types of Oral Plastic Surgery
Oral plastic surgery, also known as periodontal plastic surgery, includes a variety of procedures designed to address cosmetic and functional concerns related to your gums and oral tissues. These treatments help restore lost tissue, regenerate bone, and improve the overall appearance of your smile. Common oral plastic surgery procedures include:
1. Aesthetic Crown Lengthening (Gum Lift)
If you have a "gummy smile" or feel that your teeth look too short, esthetic crown lengthening can dramatically enhance your smile. This procedure reshapes excess gum and bone tissue to reveal more of your natural teeth. Whether you want to enhance a single tooth or your entire smile, this treatment can be completed in just one visit.
2. Functional Crown Lengthening
When teeth are decayed or broken below the gum line, functional crown lengthening can expose more of the tooth structure, allowing your dentist to place a crown or other restoration. This procedure not only improves the function of your tooth but also enhances its appearance and your overall periodontal health.
3. Root Recession Repair (Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft)
Gum recession occurs when the gum line recedes, exposing the roots of your teeth. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, and esthetic concerns. Root recession repair using subepithelial connective tissue grafting is a simple, effective procedure to restore lost gum tissue and prevent further recession. It can be performed on a single tooth or multiple teeth for both cosmetic and functional improvement.
4. Ridge Modification
When teeth are lost or removed, ridge resorption (loss of gum and bone structure) can occur, leading to a sunken appearance and functional issues such as food traps. Ridge modification is performed to rebuild and reshape the gums and bone, improving both the aesthetics and function of the area. This procedure is particularly important for patients seeking dental implants or enhancing their smile's appearance.
5. Frenectomy
A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that removes or repositions the frenum (the fold of tissue) that connects the lip or cheek to the gum. In some cases, the frenum can interfere with the alignment of the teeth or cause gum recession. A frenectomy can prevent further issues and improve your smile by ensuring your gums stay healthy and your teeth remain aligned.
6. Mucogingival Surgery (Gum Grafting)
When gum recession occurs, it can expose the tooth roots and reduce the natural defense against bacteria. Mucogingival surgery involves the use of gum grafts to restore healthy gum tissue and protect the teeth from further damage. During this procedure, a small piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or an adjacent area and placed over the exposed roots, creating a stable, healthy band of gum tissue.
Benefits of Oral Plastic Surgery
- Improved appearance: Enhance the aesthetics of your smile by reshaping the gum line or correcting gum recession.
- Restored function: Treat issues such as gum recession and bone loss that affect the health and stability of your teeth.
- Better periodontal health: Prevent further gum recession, protect tooth roots, and ensure that your gums are healthy and strong.
- Enhanced comfort: Repair and restore tissue to reduce tooth sensitivity, inflammation, and discomfort.
Why Choose Dr. Roberto Porras for Oral Plastic Surgery?
Dr. Roberto Porras, a board-certified periodontist at Texas Periodontal Associates, has extensive experience in oral plastic surgery procedures that enhance the function and appearance of your smile. As a skilled specialist in gum regeneration, bone grafting, and cosmetic gum surgery, Dr. Porras uses state-of-the-art techniques to deliver optimal results that are tailored to your individual needs.
If you're considering oral plastic surgery to enhance your smile, trust Dr. Porras and his team to provide the highest level of care with lasting, natural-looking results.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Ready to enhance the beauty and health of your smile? Contact Texas Periodontal Associates to schedule a consultation with Dr. Roberto Porras, a trusted periodontist in Houston, TX. We'll help you explore the best oral plastic surgery options to achieve the smile you've always wanted.
