Crown lengthening is a common procedure undertaken by dentists to expose a greater portion of the tooth by removing gum tissue. This dental procedure not only caters to cosmetic needs but is equally beneficial for periodontal procedures, improving oral health. Crown lengthening surgery involves reframing the gum line to reveal more of the tooth’s crown. The increase in crown exposure helps in better placement and stability of dental crowns which are essential restorations used to cover, protect, and strengthen a tooth. With an understanding of this basic foundation, we can delve further into why one might opt for dental crown lengthening.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening Procedure
Crown lengthening has a wide range of benefits and advantages for cosmetic reasons and a functional smile.
Corrects Gummy Smile
Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure for people with a gummy smile. It helps to create a more pleasing appearance by reducing the amount of soft tissue around the teeth. This procedure can also be helpful for people with short teeth, as it allows for greater exposure of the crowns and can result in better balance and proportion when smiling. By removing some of the excessive gum tissue, the procedure creates a symmetrical gum line that contributes to an overall aesthetic improvement.
Treats Functional Dental Issues
Crown lengthening is also beneficial for periodontal procedures, as it can help to treat functional issues. In cases of periodontal disease, where inflammation, receding gums, and bone loss have occurred due to bacterial infection, dental crowns can help restore the tooth and improve oral health. By carefully trimming away the excess soft tissue surrounding the teeth, a dentist can expose more of the natural tooth structure for better contact with a crown. This helps to protect against further damage caused by gum disease, restoring the tooth’s optimal function and allowing patients to maintain a healthier smile.
Is a Big Help in Restorative Dentistry
In some cases, patients may have uneven gum lines due to perio-prosthetic functional problems such as short clinical crowns or poor preparation when placing restorations. Crown lengthening can help address these issues by improving the fit between the restoration and surrounding tissue. This ensures the long-term stability of any dental restoration placed in that area; while simultaneously protecting disease-causing bacteria at the margins of the restoration.
It also allows dentists to securely place porcelain crowns or any type of restorative crown on weakened or damaged teeth, which not only improves function but also prevents the risk of tooth decay.
Improves Overall Smile
Crown lengthening contributes significantly to a pleasing smile. It enhances the proportion of teeth and gums, making it possible to exhibit a broad, healthy smile. It’s essential. Dental crowns are often used in combination to bring a pleasing visual balance. Immensely versatile, crowns can lend structure, continuity, and improved aesthetics resulting in a captivating, transformational smile. This process helps individuals confidently display a more pleasing smile, enhancing their overall appearance and self-confidence.
Paired with Other Procedures
Dental implants, root canals, and crown lengthening go hand in hand to provide natural-looking and long-lasting results. When a tooth is damaged beyond the point of restoration with a dental filling, you may need root canal therapy first to save the tooth before undergoing crown lengthening. This protects the remaining healthy tissue and prepares it for a dental implant or crown. Crown lengthening helps to restore a natural appearance by reshaping the gumline and exposing more of the restored tooth structure. This creates an even look and ensures that your dental implants or crowns fit well on top of your existing teeth for optimal function and long-lasting results.
Dental Crown Lengthening Procedure – What Does It Involve?
Dental crown lengthening procedures are frequently performed on damaged teeth to prepare them for dental crowns. It involves eliminating excess gum tissues and bone to expose more of the tooth. Crown lengthening can be performed on a single tooth if there’s insufficient tooth structure above the gum line or neighboring teeth to create a more symmetrical line.
The dentist will administer a local anesthetic before beginning the surgical procedure. Special hand instruments or rotary instruments might be used for reshaping the bone level and gums. Alternatively, a dental laser might be implemented to cut into the soft and bone tissues.
To protect the newly exposed tooth and bone, a temporary crown is often placed. This cosmetic procedure not only enhances the fit of the dental crown but also improves the appearance of the tooth and surrounding area.
Ultimately, the crown lengthening procedure aims to reveal more of the natural tooth. However, the oral surgeon’s craftsman-like precision while performing these procedures is paramount to ensure the health and appearance of your teeth.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
After receiving a crown or a temporary crown, patients should optimize post-procedure care for optimal periodontal health. Maintain regular contact with your dentist to monitor bone tissue regeneration and prevent severe damage to the roots.
Proper care and oral hygiene are essential for maintaining the health of your teeth post-procedure. It is important to brush and floss twice a day, taking care to avoid areas where the gum has recently been surgically altered. Be sure to avoid hot foods and cold temperatures as well as alcohol as your teeth may be sensible.
Additionally, utilize an anti-bacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria buildup. Over-the-counter pain relievers can effectively manage mild discomfort.
Am I a Candidate for Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a cosmetic procedure that can significantly improve the appearance of your smile. Although this procedure is versatile and can be used to correct a variety of issues, it is not suitable for everyone. Generally, you may be a candidate for crown lengthening if:
- You have weakened teeth that need protection from further damage
- You have teeth that are too short to support a dental crown
- You have a gummy smile
- You need to adjust the gum line of your teeth
Ultimately, your dentist or oral surgeon will be able to provide the best advice and determine if you can benefit from this procedure.
Consult with a Dental Crown Specialist
If you are looking to restore a healthy tooth and have a beautiful smile, consult with an experienced dental surgeon like Dr. John Paul Gallardo. An expert in crown lengthening, Dr. Gallardo can help determine if this procedure is right for you and provide the highest quality care to ensure your long-term oral health. With his expertise, you can rest assured that your dental implants or crowns will fit perfectly on top of your existing teeth for optimal function and aesthetic results. Contact Dr. Gallardo today and take the first step towards restoring a healthy tooth and beautiful smile!