Resective surgery: an esthetic application.

The esthetic influence of gingival architecture on symmetry and tooth length as they relate to the "smile line" can be altered through periodontal surgical techniques. An internal bevel gingivectomy can be utilized, with some modifications in technique, to increase the beauty of a smile. The practitioner can influence the appearance of the smile by correcting tooth length problems as they relate to upper lip line and correction of right-to-left asymmetries. The surgical techniques are described in detail for various clinical situations.