Other Services
Other services we offer include dental emergencies, frenectomy, gingivectomy, oral pathology, and orthodontic services.
Dental Emergencies
If you’re having a dental emergency it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Call us and we will schedule you in to see Dr. Gibson.
Examples of dental emergencies include:
- Toothache
- Knocked out or chipped tooth
- Loss of dental crown or filling
- Dental abscess
Frenectomy
A frenum is a small band of tissue which attaches the lip to the gums. The frenum may be attached too close to the gum line and pull on the tissue causing or worsening recession.
A frenum may also be attached between you two upper front teeth which can result in a space between these teeth. Sometimes following braces this space can re-open as the frenum continues to push the teeth apart.
Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy is a procedure in which excess gum tissue is removed in order to promote gum health or for cosmetic dentistry reasons to improve the appearance of the teeth (e.g. make short teeth appear longer). A gingivectomy may be needed in cases where:
- Gum disease has progressed to a point where the tissue needs to be removed
- Gummy smiles where the gums cover the teeth, making the teeth appear short – to learn more visit the cosmetic dentistry page
Oral Pathology
There are many conditions that affect the oral cavity that family physicians do not get a lot of experience diagnosing or treating. It’s important to be screened for conditions affecting the oral cavity, including oral cancer, as they can have significant consequences if left undiagnosed or untreated.
Dr. Iain Gibson has had additional training in the diagnosis and management or oral pathology, especially any pathologic conditions affecting your gums. Many times a diagnosis can be made during the clinical exam; however, other times a biopsy is needed. “Biopsy” can be an intimidating word as it is typically associated with cancer; however, biopsies are required for the diagnosis of many conditions, most of which are benign.
Orthodontic Services
We offer services that facilitate orthodontic treatment:
- Exposure of unerupted teeth – Some teeth do not erupt when they are supposed to. In these cases, the teeth may need to be surgically exposed to facilitate their eruption into their normal location in the mouth.
- Periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics – certain surgical procedures can be carried out that can drastically decrease the overall treatment time for braces.
- Frenectomy – The frenum is a small band of tissue that attaches your lip to your gums. If this band of tissue is attached to the gums between your front teeth it can push them apart, forming a space. In those situations, the frenum can be removed to prevent the space from recurring following braces.