Crown Lengthening

Dentist Milwaukie, OR

Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure that exposes more of a tooth's structure by removing or reshaping gum tissue, and when necessary, the underlying bone. We frequently recommend this procedure to patients who do not have enough tooth structure above the gum line to support a restoration such as a crown or bridge. In addition, crown lengthening enhances the appearance of the smile, particularly for patients who have excessive gum tissue that makes the teeth appear short. This is what is sometimes referred to as a "gummy" smile.

Crown lengthening improves the function and longevity of dental restorations, and contributes to overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean and maintain. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure minimal discomfort for our patients, and the recovery time is short. This makes crown lengthening a great option to enhance dental function, as well as the appearance of the smile.

What is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that exposes a greater amount of a tooth's structure. This is achieved with the removal or reshaping of surrounding gum tissue and, in some cases, the underlying bone. This technique is essential for patients who require restorative treatments such as crowns, bridges, or fillings, but lack sufficient visible tooth structure to support the restoration effectively.

In addition, crown lengthening is used for cosmetic concerns. A crown lengthening creates a more balanced appearance between the gums and the visible portions of the teeth in our patients' smiles. Crown lengthening facilitates dental restorations and enhances oral hygiene, as well as the visual aspects of the smile.

Reasons for Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is performed for several reasons, but it is usually performed to facilitate restorations and improve the appearance of the smile. When a tooth is fractured or decayed below the gum line, crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth's structure and allows us to move forward with other procedures such as crowns, bridges, or fillings. Crown lengthening is necessary in cases where a tooth lacks sufficient height above the gum line to support a dental restoration securely.

In addition, crown lengthening reveals more of the tooth surface to create a more proportionate and visually appealing gum line. Crown lengthening also makes oral hygiene easier for patients because it allows better access to the tooth and gum surfaces, which reduces the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Crown Lengthening Techniques

Crown lengthening techniques involve several different methods. The technique chosen depends on the specific needs of each individual patient. The most common technique is the surgical removal or reshaping of gum tissue. This is called a gingivectomy, and exposes more of the tooth structure. In cases where significant tooth exposure is required, a more involved procedure called an apically repositioned flap surgery may be used. This technique consists of incisions in the gum tissue that are repositioned, and small amounts of bone may need to be removed to achieve the desired tooth length.

Lasers are sometimes used for more precise and minimally invasive tissue removal. This advanced technology reduces bleeding and promotes faster healing. Each technique is carefully selected based on factors such as the amount of gum and bone tissue to be adjusted, the location of the teeth, and the overall health of the patient. Careful technique selection ensures an optimal outcome.

Gingivectomy Procedure

A gingivectomy is the most common procedure for the removal of excess gum tissue. This improves oral health, facilitates dental restorations, and enhances the appearance of a smile. A gingivectomy is typically performed under local anesthesia, and begins with marking the areas of gum tissue to be removed. We use specialized surgical instruments or a laser, carefully remove the excess tissue, and contour the gum line to expose an optimal amount of tooth surface. This technique helps reduce gum pockets that harbor bacteria to improve oral hygiene, and creates more balance between the appearance of the teeth and the gums.

After the excess gum tissue is removed, the area is cleaned and treated to promote fast healing. A protective dressing may be applied to safeguard the site for recovery. After the procedure, patients experience minimal discomfort, and with proper aftercare, the results significantly improve the function and appearance of the gums and teeth.

Preparation for Crown Lengthening

Preparation for crown lengthening has several important steps that ensure the procedure's success, and our patients' comfort. It starts with a thorough examination to assess the tooth structure, surrounding bone, and overall oral health. Our team reviews medical history to identify any conditions or medications that might affect healing.

Next, a detailed treatment plan is discussed where we outline the extent of tissue removal and the expected results. We advise our patients to maintain excellent oral hygiene in the days leading up to the surgery to minimize the risk of infection.

In addition, detailed instructions are provided on eating, drinking, and taking medications on the day of the procedure to minimize risks. In some cases, prophylactic antibiotics are prescribed to reduce the risk of infection. When we carefully prepare the patient and the surgical site, we ensure a successful and smooth recovery.

Crown Lengthening Expectations

Patients undergoing crown lengthening can expect a straightforward procedure with significant, immediate benefits. The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia for a pain free experience. After the procedure, mild discomfort and swelling are to be expected. Patients are encouraged to follow aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort, and may use over the counter pain medications. Recovery usually takes one to two weeks. During that time, our patients should follow their specific instructions on oral hygiene practices to promote healing and prevent infection.

The results of crown lengthening are immediate. More of the tooth structure is revealed, which allows the success of restorative treatments like crowns or bridges. In addition, a balanced gum line is created. Patients can expect an improvement in the ease of maintaining oral hygiene, as well as enhanced confidence from the cosmetic improvements to their smile. Regular follow up appointments ensure that the gums heal properly and that the desired outcomes are achieved.