Cosmetic Dental Crown Lengthening

What is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a common oral surgery performed by a periodontist. The procedure involves the removal of gum tissue, bone, or both to expose more of the patient's teeth. If you are in need of a crown lengthening procedure, please call Dentalville Panorama City in Los Angeles for a consultation with our periodontist!

Reasons for Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening may be done to restore damaged teeth, insert a dental crown, or for cosmetic reasons. Teeth that are severely damaged due to tooth decay, trauma or periodontal disease may need to undergo crown lengthening if the tooth is broken under the gum or there is not enough tooth surface to properly restore the tooth. Dental crowns are used to cover, protect, and strengthen damaged teeth. If the crown does not fit properly it can irritate the gums and cause chronic inflammation. Crown lengthening creates more space between the tooth and gums to prevent irritation of the gum line.

Cosmetically, crown lengthening can be performed to create a broader, more appealing smile. Some patients may feel that they have a “gummy smile”. A “gummy smile” occurs when teeth appear short because they are covered with excess gum tissue. Since the procedure can be performed on one or more teeth, excess gum tissue can be removed from multiple areas. Resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

What to Expect At Your Appointment

Prior to your procedure, you will meet with our periodontist who will look at your x-rays and discuss any questions or concerns you may have. Afterward an appointment will be scheduled. If your tooth requires a crown a temporary one will be put in place before the surgery. This allows the periodontist to see how much tissue will need to be removed before the permanent crown is put in place.

Crown lengthening is a common procedure and can be performed in our office under general anesthesia or sedation.The length of the surgery depends on how many teeth are involved and if soft tissue and/or bone has to be removed. Our periodontist will make small cuts in the gums to expose the roots of the tooth. Then the necessary amount of gum and/or bone will be removed. Once our periodontist is satisfied, the area will be rinsed with a saltwater solution and the gums will be stitched in place. If you had a temporary crown it will be put back in place once the surgery is done.

You should not eat anything until the anesthesia has worn off to prevent damage to your mouth, cheek, or tongue. There may be some slight pain or discomfort after the procedure. Over the counter medication or prescription pain medication may be provided to alleviate the pain.You should follow a soft food diet and the home care instructions provided by our office.

In about a week you will come back to have your stitches removed. It takes about three months for the surgical site to completely heal. Once the area is healed any other restorative procedures that need to be performed will be completed. If you have any questions or concerns please, call our dental office.