Crown Lengthening: When and why you may need this
Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure recommended for a variety of dental issues—whether to restore tooth function or enhance aesthetics. At Nicosia Periodontics, our goal is to give you clear, reliable information so you can decide if this treatment is right for you. Below, we explain what crown lengthening involves, its benefits, and when it might be the appropriate option.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a dental treatment aimed at exposing more of a tooth’s structure. This is achieved by reshaping or removing gum tissue—and occasionally bone—around the tooth. The procedure can be performed on a single tooth or multiple teeth, depending on the patient’s needs. There are several types:
Functional Crown Lengthening
When a tooth is severely decayed or broken below the gumline, there might not be enough surface left for an effective restoration. Functional crown lengthening removes the excess tissue to allow for proper repair, potentially saving the tooth from extraction.Aesthetic Crown Lengthening
For patients concerned about a “gummy” smile or teeth that seem too short, this procedure adjusts the gumline to create a more harmonious and appealing look.Combined Approach
Sometimes, both functional and aesthetic reasons coexist. In such cases, a combined crown lengthening procedure addresses decay or damage and improves the overall appearance of your smile.
Key Benefits:
- Enhanced Oral Health:
By exposing more of the tooth, it becomes easier to clean, which can help in preventing or treating periodontal disease. - Improved Appearance:
Adjusting the gumline can transform a smile that appears disproportionate or “gummy.” - Tooth Preservation:
When decay or damage extends beneath the gumline, crown lengthening can create the conditions needed to restore the tooth rather than remove it.
When Is Crown Lengthening Needed?
Several situations may call for crown lengthening, including:
- A Gummy Smile:
If excess gum tissue makes your teeth appear shorter, crown lengthening can help reveal more of the tooth structure, resulting in a more balanced look. - Deep Decay:
For teeth with decay extending below the gumline, exposing more of the tooth can facilitate effective cleaning and restoration. - Traumatic Injury:
In cases where a tooth is fractured or cracked below the gumline, removing or reshaping gum tissue can provide enough exposed surface to allow for a successful repair.
What is a process?
Consultation & X-rays
A thorough examination and X-rays help assess the tooth and surrounding tissue to determine the best approach for the procedure.Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area, ensuring a comfortable experience.Gum Reshaping
Small incisions are made in the gum tissue to remove excess gum or adjust bone levels if necessary. This helps expose more of the tooth’s surface.Suturing
Once the reshaping is complete, the gums are carefully repositioned and secured with sutures.Healing & Aftercare
Patients receive post-op care instructions to promote healing. While initial recovery takes about a week, full healing may take a few weeks.
