Crown Lengthening Candidates: Is This Procedure Right for You?
Crown lengthening is a procedure that can be performed for cosmetic or functional purposes. When used to address cosmetic concerns, this procedure is often called gum contouring, a procedure that removes excess gingival tissue and reshapes the existing gum line. In most cases, this treatment is performed under local anesthesia, although sedation can be provided if desired.
Today, our team at Brooklyn Heights Dental in Brooklyn, NY discusses crown lengthening candidates, and explains who can benefit from this treatment.
General Eligibility for Crown Lengthening
Candidates for crown lengthening include patients who wish to improve the aesthetics of their smile or those who require the exposure of more tooth structure for restorative reasons. Overall, patients should be in good general health, and should not have any medical conditions that could interfere with the surgical process.
In addition, candidates should have good oral health and be free of periodontal disease or extensive tooth decay. Both of these conditions can hinder the final results of treatment.
Eligible patients should also become familiar with the treatment process and have a full understanding of the benefits and potential risks. Our doctors can discuss these with you in detail during an initial consultation at our practice.
Crown lengthening is a surgical process that requires some degree of healing time. Knowing what to anticipate during recovery can help you have realistic expectations.
Crown Lengthening for Cosmetic Purposes
Patients who have a gummy smile or an uneven smile line can take advantage of gum contouring at our practice. During this procedure, excess gum tissue is removed and the gum line is re-contoured to achieve greater symmetry and balance. Your doctor will use advanced techniques and methods, taking care to remove just the right amount of tissue.
Cosmetic gum contouring can be performed as a standalone procedure, or it can be combined with other aesthetic treatments, such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding, for a dramatic result. When the procedure is complete, patients will immediately notice a more balanced smile and an improved tooth-to-gum ratio.
Crown Lengthening for Functional Purposes
There are times when crown lengthening is performed for restorative reasons. For example, if a cavity or fracture occurs beneath the gum line, crown lengthening can be performed to expose more of the tooth surface. This allows the dentist to reach the damaged portion of the tooth and treat it effectively. In some cases, crown lengthening is performed to make hard-to-reach areas easier to clean. For example, when excess gum tissue is present, bacteria can get trapped in the gum line and cause an infection. Reshaping the gum tissue can make the area much easier to brush and floss effectively.
Contact Brooklyn Heights Dental
Do you show more gums than teeth when you smile? Does your smile appear uneven? The gums are meant to frame the teeth, and when there is excess gingival tissue, the smile can seem unbalanced.
Crown lengthening can address these issues and deliver a more symmetrical, beautiful smile. To learn more, schedule a consultation at our practice. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (718) 857-6639.
