Crown Lengthening
Anatomic Crown Exposure
Anatomic Crown Exposure can help display the full, beautiful crown of the natural tooth. This procedure is commonly performed following orthodontic treatment in patients whose teeth appear short.
Aesthetic Crown Lengthening
Aesthetic Crown Lengthening can correct gum asymmetries to give the best possible cosmetic result for patients wanting to improve their smile. We typically perform this procedure for patients who are planning veneers or other cosmetic restorations to make sure they achieve the best possible result.
Key Benefits of Teeth Crown Lengthening
- Improved Smile Aesthetics: Crown lengthening can dramatically enhance your smile by revealing more of your natural tooth structure, correcting a “gummy” smile, and creating a more balanced gum-to-tooth ratio.
- Better Oral Health: By exposing more of the tooth surface, crown lengthening makes it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease.
- Enhanced Restorative Outcomes: For patients requiring crowns or other restorative work, crown lengthening ensures there’s sufficient tooth structure for proper attachment, improving the fit and longevity of dental restorations.
- Increased Confidence: Patients often report a significant boost in self-esteem after crown lengthening, feeling more comfortable smiling and speaking in social and professional settings.
- Versatile Treatment: Crown lengthening can address a variety of dental concerns, from cosmetic issues to functional problems, making it a versatile solution for many patients.
The Evaluation Stage
When you visit our office for a crown lengthening consultation, our skilled periodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and surrounding oral structures. We’ll assess the amount of gum tissue present, evaluate your bone structure, and discuss your aesthetic goals and any restorative needs. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to determine if crown lengthening is the most appropriate treatment for your specific case.
During this appointment, we’ll explain the crown lengthening procedure in detail, including its benefits and any potential risks. We encourage you to ask questions and share any concerns you may have. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you achieve your desired outcome. We’ll also discuss any preparatory steps you may need to take before the procedure and provide you with an estimated timeline for your treatment.
Treatment Process
What to Expect During the Procedure
Crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Our periodontist will carefully make small incisions in your gum tissue to separate it from the teeth. In some cases, a small amount of bone may need to be removed to achieve the desired result. We use specialized instruments to gently reshape the gum line and, if necessary, contour the underlying bone.
Throughout the procedure, we focus on creating a natural-looking gum line that complements your smile and facial features. The length of the procedure can vary depending on the number of teeth being treated and the extent of reshaping required, but it typically takes between 1-2 hours. After the reshaping is complete, we’ll clean the area and place small sutures to promote proper healing. Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Before and After Examples
Anatomic Crown Exposure
Aesthetic Crown Lengthening
Recovery and Aftercare
What to Expect for Recovery from the Procedure
Following your crown lengthening procedure, it’s normal to experience some swelling and minor discomfort for a few days. We’ll provide you with specific aftercare instructions to manage these symptoms and promote healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any discomfort, and applying ice packs to the outside of your face can reduce swelling. It’s important to follow a soft food diet for the first few days and avoid hot or spicy foods that may irritate the treated area.
Proper oral hygiene is crucial during the recovery period, but you’ll need to be gentle when brushing and flossing around the surgical site. We may prescribe an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help keep the area clean and prevent infection. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two, but we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for about a week to ensure proper healing.
The initial healing process typically takes about 2-3 weeks, during which time you’ll notice your gums becoming firmer and more normal in appearance. However, it may take a few months for your gums to fully heal and settle into their new position. We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure optimal results.