Diagnosis and treatment of an altered passive eruption : A case report

Abstract

Altered passive eruption (APE) is a genetic condition characterized by a coronary position of the gingiva on the enamel which results in short clinical crowns. There are several clinical and radiological ways to diagnose the altered passive eruption as well as several treatment possibilities depending on the case and the classification of the APE. A successful new smile requires an adequate knowledge of the periodontal parameters, a reliable diagnosis, an effective surgical protocol and the respect of the principle of tissue preservation. In this case report, an altered passive eruption was diagnosed clinically and radiologically and treated through gingivectomy, osteoplasty and osteotomy.