Treating Overgrowth of Gum Tissue

Tooth eruption consists of an active and a passive phase. Active eruption is the movement of the teeth in the direction of the occlusal plane, whereas passive eruption is related to the exposure of the teeth by apical migration of the gingiva.

Altered passive eruption is characterized by excessive gingiva in relation to the crown of the tooth. This condition may be localized or generalized, may exist in conjuction with or without periodontal disease and should be considered in planning for restorative, orthodontic and esthetic dentistry.

While altered passive eruption is usually diagnosed by clinical observation, this condition is often overlooked or unrecognized. Failure to recognize this condition can result in compromised clinical outcomes.

Correct diagnosis of altered passive eruption and proper therapy will result in improved dental care and esthetic results for patients. Read more here about this condition and how Philadelphia Periodontist Dr. Stephen Brown treats the overgrowth of gum tissue.