Do I Need Crown Lengthening?
If your dentist has suggested crown lengthening, you might be wondering exactly what that involves and whether it's truly necessary for you. Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure that reshapes or removes gum tissue, exposing more of the tooth’s structure. Dentists frequently recommend it as preparation for a dental crown, though it also has significant cosmetic and oral health benefits. If you need crown lengthening, read on to learn more about it and why your dentist might have suggested it.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown is essentially a protective cap placed over a damaged tooth. Crowns restore the tooth’s original shape, function, and appearance. They are especially important if the tooth has been cracked, broken, misshapen, or weakened by decay. For a crown to fit securely, your dentist needs enough exposed tooth structure above your gumline. If there isn’t enough visible tooth surface, crown lengthening becomes necessary. By removing excess gum tissue, crown lengthening reveals more of the tooth, allowing a crown to be securely and effectively placed.
Reasons Your Dentist Might Recommend Crown Lengthening
Your dentist might advise crown lengthening for several reasons, depending on your specific dental needs:
- Preparing Teeth for Crowns or Fillings: Sometimes teeth break or decay below the gum line. In these cases, there might not be enough exposed tooth to securely hold a crown or filling. Crown lengthening removes the extra gum tissue, providing enough space to place a durable, long-lasting restoration.
- Improving the Appearance of a Gummy Smile: Some individuals have excess gum tissue, making their teeth look short or hidden. A gummy smile can make someone self-conscious, even if their teeth are healthy. Crown lengthening reshapes and reduces this gum tissue, creating a more balanced and attractive smile.
- Addressing Gum Disease: Gum disease sometimes causes gums to recede unevenly or develop deep pockets around teeth. These pockets trap harmful bacteria, leading to further complications. Crown lengthening can reshape gums to eliminate these pockets, promoting easier cleaning and better overall gum health.
- Treating Tooth Fractures Below the Gumline: If a tooth has fractured beneath the gum line, your dentist might find it difficult to repair it properly. Crown lengthening exposes the fracture, allowing better access to the area so the tooth can be repaired or restored effectively.
What to Expect During Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is typically performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia. This means you'll remain comfortable and pain-free. Your dentist will make small incisions around the gum tissue of the affected tooth to expose more tooth surface. In some cases, minor reshaping or removal of bone around the tooth might also be necessary. The entire process usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of your case and how many teeth require treatment.
Determining If You’re a Good Candidate
Ultimately, your dentist will evaluate your specific dental needs to decide if crown lengthening is right for you. It's often recommended as part of a broader treatment plan, particularly if you need a crown placed or other restorative work completed. Crown lengthening can significantly improve your smile's function and appearance, offering both practical and cosmetic benefits. If your dentist suggests crown lengthening, it’s because they believe it’s an important step towards improving your oral health, comfort, and confidence in your smile.
