Do I Need Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure performed to expose more of a tooth by adjusting the gum tissue around it. The procedure is often recommended when a tooth needs to be restored, but not enough of the tooth is visible above the gumline. If your dentist has mentioned crown lengthening, it is usually because they need better access to the tooth or more structure to support a future crown. Read on to learn more about why you may need it performed.

What is crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a procedure that removes or reshapes gum tissue so more of the tooth can be seen. This procedure is usually done with local anesthesia and performed as an outpatient procedure. During the procedure, the area is numbed, and the dentist carefully adjusts the gumline around the tooth. It may involve one tooth, or it may involve several teeth if the goal is to improve the appearance of the smile.

Preparing for a crown

The most common reason for crown lengthening is to prepare a tooth for a dental crown. Crowns can be installed for several reasons, but the most common are to restore a broken, decayed, or damaged tooth or to support an additional dental appliance like a bridge. A crown needs enough tooth structure to stay secure. If the tooth is too short, broken near the gumline, or damaged below the gums, the crown may not fit properly. Crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth so the dentist can place the crown with a better seal. This helps the crown stay in place and lowers the risk of future problems.

A gummy smile

Crown lengthening can also be done for cosmetic appearance. Some people have extra gum tissue that makes their teeth look short, even when the teeth are normal in size. This is often called a gummy smile. By reshaping the gumline, the dentist can reveal more of the tooth and create a more balanced smile.

Gum health concerns

In some cases, crown lengthening may be part of gum treatment. Deep pockets around the teeth can trap bacteria and make the area hard to clean, leading to more susceptibility to gum disease. Adjusting the gum tissue may help reduce these pockets and make daily hygiene easier. This is not needed for every gum problem, but it may be helpful in certain situations.

What should you expect?

Crown lengthening is usually done in a dental office. The procedure often takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many teeth are being treated and whether bone needs to be adjusted. Afterward, the gums need time to heal before the final crown or restoration can be placed.

What does this mean for you?

You may need crown lengthening if there is not enough visible tooth to support a crown or filling. It may also be recommended for a gummy smile, deep decay, a broken tooth, or certain gum health concerns. If your dentist recommends it, ask what problem the procedure is meant to solve and how it fits into your overall treatment plan.

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