I was diagnosed with periodontal disease several years ago. I’ve had one gum surgery already, but I still seem to have a lot of recession. I rarely smile because large black triangles have formed between my front teeth. They look hideous. My dentist wants to do another surgery and I’m afraid it will just make things worse. I recently read about something called a gingival mask that helps hide black triangles. I’ve tried several dentist offices in my area and none seem to offer it – and no one can seem to exactly what is is. Where do I find a dentist who will make one? I don’t know much about them, but it seem like it may be the only thing that can help me smile again — unless there’s a chance that my gum tissue will eventually come back and fill in the areas? — Stephanie
Stephanie,
While most cosmetic dentists will do a gingival mask, they don’t get requests for them very often. If you’re searching on specific dentist websites, they likely won’t mention them and most receptionists or other office staff often don’t even know what a gingival mask is if you call and ask.
Gingival mask photo courtesy of Chromeworks Lab, Chico, CA
Creating a gingival mask is fairly simple and any cosmetic dentist who has an eye for aesthetics can work with their lab and do a great job. A piece of silicone that matches the color of your gum tissue is shaped to fit over the black triangles and between your front teeth. It’s held in place with tags that slip down and through the black triangles. All it takes to get the process started is a good plaster model of your teeth.
As far as your gums growing back, that won’t happen. A gingival mask is the only way to achieve an aesthetic result – good luck!
This blog is sponsored by Dr. Stephen Doan. Find out more about the services he provides by visiting his La Jolla cosmetic dental website.