Are You a Candidate for Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a restorative dental operation that can be performed for cosmetic reasons or to prepare for another dental procedure, such as tooth crowning. Crown lengthening can also be done to expose more of the tooth, hence reducing or preventing decay.

What Is the Purpose of Crown Lengthening Surgery?

Crown lengthening surgery may be performed for one of several reasons. It is possible to reduce the appearance of extra gum tissue and achieve a more symmetrical smile, making the teeth look longer and more balanced. It can also be used to reveal cavities, rotting, or fractured parts of the teeth, as well as to expose more tooth structure in preparation for another dental surgery, such as crowning.

Gummy Smile
A gummy smile is one that shows extra gum tissue. This can result in an unflattering grin. One reason for a gummy grin is excessive gum growth over the teeth, resulting in the appearance of little teeth. Fortunately, this issue may be readily corrected with a small gum operation known as crown lengthening.

A gummy smile can be caused by heredity, such as having a bigger upper jaw than average, or by other causes including poor dental care. Reasons for developing a gummy smile include:

• Teeth that have sprouted too far downward, dragging the gums down with them;
• Teeth that have worn down with time;
• A hyperactive lip that raises high enough to reveal more gum tissue than usual;
• A big upper jaw.

Crown lengthening surgery may assist in improving the look of a gummy smile.

Gum Recession
The exposure of your teeth's roots indicates gingival recession, also known as receding gums. A receding gum line is more frequent in individuals over the age of 40, although it can also affect teens and older children aged 10 and above. It may also arise in young adults following orthodontic treatment.

The most typical sign of gum recession is increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods, but if not addressed, the look of your smile might change owing to the illusion of 'longer' teeth.

Do I Need Crown Lengthening?

There are a few major reasons why you may be a suitable candidate for crown lengthening surgery, including:

• If you need to restore your teeth because of damage or gum disease;
• If you want a more symmetrical smile and are concerned about the look of your gums;
• If you're having a cosmetic dental crown and there's not enough of the tooth exposed to execute this surgery comfortably;
• If you're having a cosmetic dental crown and there's not enough of the tooth exposed to execute this surgery comfortably.

You should discuss this with your dentist to see whether crown lengthening is good for you.

Crown Lengthening Treatment Process

Preparing for Crown Lengthening Treatment
Before agreeing to a crown lengthening surgery, you should address your concerns with your dentist to see whether it's appropriate for you.

To prepare for crown lengthening procedures, you should practice proper oral care, which includes:

• Brushing and flossing frequently;
• Having regular dental checkups;
• Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash.

Before surgery, a periodontist will analyze your mouth to establish the best size and shape for your new gum line.

What to Expect During Surgery?

During crown lengthening, a periodontist or dentist will remove extra gum tissue from your mouth. The method will be determined by the technique that is most suited to your specific demands. Three of the most commonly used approaches are:

• Gingivectomy;
• Apically repositioned flap surgery;
• Surgical extrusion.

The procedure that the periodontist chooses for you might depend on:

• The aesthetics you prefer;
• The crown-to-root ratio in your mouth;
• The location and appearance of the root;
• The placement of teeth along the gum line;
• The reason for the procedure.

Crown Lengthening Aftercare and Recovery

The sort of aftercare required may vary depending on the procedure utilized; thus, your dentist will advise you on what to do during your recuperation.

Because an anesthetic will be used, the surgery should be painless; nevertheless, you may suffer slight pain, bleeding, and swelling for a few days following. Your dentist may prescribe that you take anti-inflammatory medicine, apply a cold compress, or use antiseptic mouthwash. You should also only consume soft meals and rinse your mouth after eating.

Full recovery from crown lengthening surgery might take up to six months.