Full Mouth Gingiva Melanin Rehabilitation
Certain cultural factors and imbalances of pigmentation components form the basis for unusual colorations of ginigival tissues.
This patient had a familial history of excess melanin pigmentation and, in his particular case, affected the lower arch more than the upper arch. He also reported that he was a heavy smoker and drank lots of coffee, further adding to the discoloration, or dark gum condition he had.
The patient complained that when he smiled broadly, his gum tissue gave a splotchy and yet dense appearance adjacent to most tooth structures. He even admitted that he spoke infrequently and didn't social much because of his self consciousness.
Our patient had viewed several before and after treatment plans that were used successfully with other patients with similar pigmentation problems.
This young man's treatment request was simple and to the point. He wanted all of his gum tissue (gingiva) to have a uniform and healthy looking pink appearance.
He also wanted to create more cosmetic appeal by having all of his teeth power whitened and to have 2 porcelain veneers applied to correct a chipped, uneven tooth appearance on 2 anterior teeth.
As can be seen in the adjacent pre-treatment picture, dark gum tissue was prevalent on both the maxillary and mandibular arches.
After completing professional grade power whitening treatment, the patient underwent full mouth OpusDent gum lasing in a single treatment session. Topical anesthesizing agents were not needed since no discomfort was experienced by the patient. Dr. Bram's use of special laser attachments and low power output of the OpusDent laser assured patient comfort throughout the treatment.
The impact of the cosmetic treatments will be felt by our patient for years to come. He now smiles with this teeth.... and quite nicely too... but he also has a smile in his eyes.
Self confidence seemed to skyrocket.... he began smiling broadly... very broadly... almost immediately. He looked good and felt good.
Initiating conversation or engaging in long conversations in new social situations or with new acquaintances is no longer an obstacle for the patient.
Rumor has it that the patient will now initiate or engage in any verbal communication with anyone who is willing to listen. He has no self esteem issues like he had before.
Photography provided by:
Gary Bram, DDS
Bayside New York Cosmetic Dentistry
3534 Bell Blvd
Bayside New York NY 11361
(718) 229-3232
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