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Crown lengthening is commonly performed to improve gum health or to prepare the mouth for restorative or cosmetic procedures. It can also be used to correct a smile that appears excessively gum-filled by eliminating surplus gum tissue and exposing more of the natural tooth. This process entails reshaping or recontouring the bone and gum tissue and can be applied to a single tooth, multiple teeth, or the entire gum line, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
The Significance of Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a widely used and adaptable procedure that offers numerous advantages and applications. The majority of patients who have undergone this surgery are extremely satisfied with the outcomes. Below are some of the primary reasons why crown lengthening is commonly performed:
Restoring damaged teeth: Periodontal disease, trauma, and decay can cause extensive damage to the teeth. When the teeth are broken below the gum line, crown lengthening is a procedure that can be done to prepare the area for a new restoration. This procedure effectively corrects the damage to the teeth.
Cosmetic uses: Excess gum tissue can cause teeth to appear unnaturally short and increase the risk of periodontal infections. However, by removing the surplus gum tissue, a balanced and healthy smile can be achieved, improving its overall aesthetic.
Dental crowns: Crown lengthening is a protective procedure that increases the gap between the dental crown and the underlying jawbone. Its purpose is to safeguard the gum tissues and bone from potential harm that may occur during the placement of the new crown.
What are the steps involved in the crown lengthening procedure?
Crown lengthening is a procedure that is typically done with local anesthesia. The length of the procedure depends on the number of teeth involved and whether any bone removal is necessary. Before the procedure, any existing dental crowns will be removed and then replaced immediately after.
To separate the gums from the teeth, your dentist will make small incisions around the soft tissue. Even if only one tooth needs reshaping, neighboring teeth are usually treated for a more balanced result. This allows the dentist to access the roots of the teeth and the underlying bone.
Sometimes, removing a small amount of tissue is enough to expose the tooth for crown placement. In other cases, a small amount of bone may need to be removed around the teeth. Special hand instruments and rotary instruments, similar to a drill used in cavity treatment, are used for this bone removal.
After the surgery, the gums will be repositioned, giving the appearance of longer teeth. An intraoral bandage will be used to secure the surgical site and prevent infection. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication and provide a chlorhexidine mouth rinse to reduce bacterial growth. It typically takes about two to three months for the surgical site to fully heal.
