Is there any way of getting a cosmetic gum graft for my receding gums

Q. Hi there, I’m wondering if you can help me. I hate my teeth so much that it’s starting to take over my life. I used to have fine teeth but now I can see very little problem and it’s driving me insane. I’m hopefully getting some bonding soon on a few teeth that have started to become transparent. But one thing thats irritating me most are my gums on the lower front teeth. When I was 18 I had braces (needed 4 back teeth removed for them) and years later (I am now 24) two gaps began to form at the bottom. I hated this and saw my orthodontist who gave me latex bands to move the teeth closer and thus close the gap as apparently there’s no need for braces as the alignment is fine. However, the gum around my bottom 2 teeth has receeded a little. It’s not severe, but I notice it and hate it, Also, there’s a small gap in between these front teeth – they go together on the top, but theres a gap before the gumline. I hate this – my teeth feel long and I feel hideous. I asked my dentist about a gum graft, but she said it is only for ‘severe cases’ and mine is not severe, even though I just dont want to smile anymore. (I’m not on NHS; I’m private and would be willing to pay for this.) Is there any way of getting a ‘cosmetic’ gum graft? And if so, do you know of any places in Wales who would do this? I hope you can help, it’s depressing me.

A. Thanks for your email. I presume your gums are healthy and not inflamed (if this is not the case this will need to be addressed first with hygienist and possibly a periodontist (gum specialist))

You then need to look at the shape of the teeth. If they are like upside down triangles this will be difficult to treat without a gum graft. You could ask your dentist to contour them before using the bands to bring them together (ie make them more square)

You then can consider a gum graft which would improve the situation. I’m afraid I don’t know anyone in Wales but would suggest you seek out a cosmetic periodontist or cosmetic dentist who works closely with a periodontist). Good luck!

Dr Justin Glaister Umbrella 11 Harley Street, London, W1G 9PF Web: www.umbrellasmiles.com Tel: 020 7612 9810 View My Profile Dr Glaister
September 8th, 2015 at 08:47 PM
Adrienne Shelley Says :

Hi, I have severe gum loss on my two bottom front teeth , can I get a gum graft to pay privatley, and will it be painfull.
ps do you know of a dentist who will do this I live in Lytham st annes in lancashire.
with thanks
my very best regards
Adrienne shelley

Leave a Reply