If, as the poets say, the eyes are the mirror
of the soul, then the mouth gives it voice.

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The Gummy Smile

Fractured Teeth
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1719 Penn Ave
Wyomissing Hills
Reading, PA 19609
(610) 678-4531

Dr. Richard Shanaman, D.D.S, P.C : The Gummy Smile

Six patients all had a common problem. Their teeth appeared too short. This problem is not uncommon and can result from gingival irritation due to medications, dental appliances such as braces, or altered passive eruption, which simply means the gum does not recede to a normal level once teeth have erupted.

If there are habits such as clenching or grinding (bruxism), excessive wear can produce teeth that appear too short. The problem is one that can often be corrected with dental restorations such as crowns, onlays and veneers.

More frequently, however, a surgical procedure is required. Six cases requiring crown lengthening surgery are shown below.

Cases 1 , 2
	These Two young ladies had altered passive eruption, and crown lengthening accomplished.
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Case 3 This patient only needed crown lengthening to create a more natural and attractive smile.
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Case 4 This patient has amelogenisis imperfecta - a hereditary defect in tooth enamel formation, characterized by vertical grooving, pitting, and a yellowish-brown discoloration. Her situation required veneers as well as surgery.
Case 5 This patient had existing porcelain fused to metal crowns, which did not appear natural. Placing all ceramic crowns after surgery produced a beautiful natural smile.
Case 6 Crown lengthening surgery and veneers helped close the spaces between this young man's teeth. He now readily smiles as a result of improved self-esteem and confidence.