Cosmetic Procedures in Birmingham, AL
Laser Gum Depigmentation
Although many presume that all gingival tissues (gum tissues) are pink, this is a misconception. The shades of gingival tissues are just as diverse as skin tones. Individuals who have gum tissue that is very dark or that has inconsistent color patterns may have a condition referred to as gingival hyperpigmentation. Dr. Maddux frequently treats this condition at his office in Birmingham, AL using a laser gum depigmentation/gum bleaching procedure. This innovative procedure makes correcting color variances in the gingival tissue and lightening extremely dark gingivae quick, easy and nearly pain free.
Causes Of Hyperpigmentation Include:
- medical conditions that increase the production of melanin;
- endocrine disorders (e.g., Addison’s disease) that can cause darkening of the gingivae;
- antimalarial medications and minocycline, among others;
- tobacco usage (chewing and smoking);
- poor dental hygiene;
- a genetic predisposition; and
- other irritants.
When darkening of the gingivae occurs due to smoking, this condition is referred to as smoker’s melanosis. If the individual chooses to stop smoking, as time passes, the color of his or her gingivae will lighten.
Is The Procedure Painful?
This state-of-the-art, minimally-invasive procedure allows Dr. Maddux to treat hyperpigmentation without creating incisions or placing sutures. For comparison purposes, the laser gum depigmentation/gum bleaching treatment is similar to the laser skin resurfacing procedures that are used to diminish the signs of aging and eliminate skin imperfections, except this laser treatment is used on the gingival tissue as opposed to on the skin of the face.
These gum depigmentation/gum bleaching procedures offer dental patients a quick, minimally-invasive option for improving the aesthetics of their gingival tissue along with a swift healing process that has very little discomfort.