Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure that aims to give the tooth an elongated appearance.
When Is It Used?
In addition to giving teeth an elongated look, crown lengthening is used to gain access to covered areas of the tooth.
Gummy Smile: Some patients may complain of having a “gummy smile.” A gummy smile refers to a smile where most of the teeth are covered with gum tissue. This gives teeth a shortened look, due to most of the tooth structure being covered by the gums. Crown lengthening treatment involves removal of excess gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth structure.
To Gain Access: Sometimes a broken tooth may have a break at the gum line. Restoring a tooth with a break at the gum line is difficult. As a result, most dentists will perform the crown lengthening procedure to expose the rest of the tooth. Once exposed, the tooth can be easily and properly restored. In addition to a broken tooth, a loose crown or filling may also require access to areas of the tooth that are located under the gums. Placing a new dental crown may also require additional access to the tooth using the same procedure.
How Is The Procedure Performed?
A dental cleaning may be recommended before the procedure to reduce the amount of bacteria present and to remove any hardened build-up in the area. While only one tooth may be in need of the procedure, sometimes adjoining teeth are included as well. Nearby teeth may be involved to allow for the proper reshaping of the gum tissue to result in a natural look.
Crown lengthening is performed with the use of local anesthesia, commonly know as freezing the area. Small incisions are made to allow the gums to be parted from the teeth. In some cases, a small amount of bone may also be removed to reshape the gum properly. Once the small cuts are made, there will be enough room to place the dental crown or filling. The area is then washed and stitched back together to heal.
You will receive prescription medication to help with any discomfort, along with instructions for a semi-soft diet. It is important to avoid brushing the gums near in the procedure area until they heal fully.
About Dr. Joseph Salvaggio
Located in Brampton, Ontario Dr. Joseph Salvaggio has been practicing general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry for over 20 years. He enjoys interacting with his patients and helping to restore their oral health for better overall health as well. Meeting new patients, interacting and educating them is one of Dr. Salvaggio’s biggest joys. We encourage you to read our reviews or call us with any dental questions you have. We look forward to speaking with you and meeting you soon.