Coronary elongation

In instances of a “gingival smile,” where teeth crowns maintain normal dimensions but are obscured by excess gum tissue, they may appear shorter. Sometimes, the gum line may exhibit asymmetry or irregularity, detracting from the aesthetic. 

To address these concerns, a procedure may be recommended to reshape and recontour these tissues, involving both gum and bone. Coronal elongation aims to facilitate other restorative or cosmetic procedures, such as deep subgingival cavity treatment or restoring a tooth lacking sufficient supragingival structure for crown or bridge restoration. This surgical intervention adjusts the gingival and bone levels to expose more of the tooth surface. 

Gum Recession Treatment

Gum and bone retraction can lead to root exposure, a common issue affecting 4 to 12% of adult patients. Often unnoticed until severe, gum recession causes teeth to appear longer and increases sensitivity to external stimuli like hot, cold, or sweet substances. Various factors, including periodontal disease, can contribute to gum recession. 

Mucogingival surgery techniques can cover exposed root areas by thickening soft tissues, preventing further gum recession, bone loss, and protecting vulnerable root surfaces from decay, thus reducing sensitivity. 

Depending on the type and severity of recession, a periodontist may employ various covering techniques: 

• Connective tissue graft: Most commonly used, it involves harvesting tissue from the palate or another donor area and placing it at the level of the affected tooth or teeth. 
• Free gingival graft: Particularly for fixed gingival area augmentation. 
• Pedicled flaps: Coronal or lateral displacement of gum tissue, suitable for patients with adequate gum in surrounding areas. 
• Tunneling technique: Without incisions, for specific cases. 

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