Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a minor surgical procedure that exposes more of a tooth's surface by removing excess gum tissue and, in some cases, a small portion of the underlying bone. This procedure is often performed for both functional and aesthetic reasons.
Functionally, crown lengthening helps to create enough tooth structure for restorative treatments like crowns or bridges when a tooth is broken or severely decayed below the gum line.
Aesthetically, it can improve the appearance of a "gummy smile," where excessive gum tissue covers a large portion of the teeth, creating an unbalanced and less appealing smile.
Why might I need crown lengthening?
The following are some of the reasons why crown lengthening may be used as a treatment option:
Excessive gum coverage: If your teeth appear short or disproportionate due to excessive gum tissue, crown lengthening can create a more balanced and pleasing smile by revealing more of the tooth's surface.
Restorative treatment: Crown lengthening might be necessary to expose enough tooth structure for placing
dental crowns or
bridges when a tooth is severely decayed or broken below the gum line.
Dental trauma: Following dental trauma, crown lengthening can be performed to expose the affected tooth's healthy portion, making it possible to restore the damaged tooth effectively.
Periodontal concerns: Crown lengthening may be required to address certain periodontal conditions, like deep gum pockets, that impede proper oral hygiene and hinder the successful outcome of other dental treatments.
Aesthetic enhancement: Some individuals opt for crown lengthening for purely cosmetic reasons, seeking to achieve a more attractive and confident smile by improving the harmony between their teeth and gums.
