Crown lengthening is a dental procedure often recommended when decay extends below the gumline or when there’s a need to expose more of the tooth surface for restoration purposes. This versatile procedure can address both functional and aesthetic concerns, making it an essential step in restorative dentistry and smile enhancement.
Here’s what you should know about crown lengthening:
1. **Purpose**: Decay or damage below the gumline may require the removal of a small amount of bone and gum tissue to facilitate proper restoration. Your dentist may recommend crown lengthening to ensure optimal conditions for placing a new crown on the tooth.
2. **Procedure Overview**: Crown lengthening involves adjusting the gum and bone levels to expose more of the natural tooth structure. This may be necessary to restore broken or severely decayed teeth or to address aesthetic concerns associated with a “gummy” smile, where excess gum tissue covers the teeth, making them appear short.
3. **Restorative and Aesthetic Benefits**: By reshaping the gum and bone tissue, crown lengthening not only provides access to the underlying tooth structure for restoration but also enhances the appearance of the smile. Exposing more of the tooth surface can improve proportions and create a more balanced and attractive smile.
4. **Consultation and Treatment**: If you’re considering crown lengthening, your dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if the procedure is right for you. During the procedure, local anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort, and excess gum and bone tissue are carefully reshaped to achieve the desired outcome.
5. **Recovery and Results**: Following crown lengthening, you may experience some mild discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and proper oral hygiene practices. As the tissues heal, you’ll notice an improvement in the appearance of your smile, with more of your natural teeth exposed and ready for restoration.
Whether you require crown lengthening for restorative purposes or to enhance the aesthetics of your smile, Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is here to help. Contact us at 813-866-9913 to schedule a consultation and discover how crown lengthening can transform your smile. Experience the benefits of this advanced dental procedure and achieve a smile you’ll be proud to share.