Aesthetics in Periodontology

Gingival and periodontal problem can certainly compromise aesthetics in multiple ways. These problems may manifest as 'too much or too little' of the gingiva leading to gummy smile or denuded roots. Furthermore, hyperpigmentation of the gingiva can severely compromise the esthetic appearance of an individual. Melanin pigmentation is generally concerned physiologic but if it is excessive it can certainly take away the smile from persons face. Other problems like a deficient ridge can severely compromise aesthetics following restorative procedures, therefore this aspect has become even of greater significance with the advent of endosseous implants5. Absent or lost interdental papilla also leads to an unaesthetic appearance exposing the black triangles. These concerns have given rise to numerous preventive and therapeutic approaches to enhance esthetics, whether they are to cover the denuded root surfaces, increase the length of clinical crown, augmentation of deficient ridge, depigmentation as well as other mucogingival procedures, creating or reconstructing the lost papilla & many other disciplines.