Crown Lengthening

Services

The crown is the portion of the tooth above the gum line that can be seen when we smile. If you have broken a tooth or have a deep filling or cavity, the tissues may need to be repositioned in order for your dentist to restore the tooth to its normal function and appearance in a procedure known as crown lengthening.

Alternatively, it is possible that during normal growth and development, too much gum tissue forms around the teeth. Teeth can appear shortened and the margin where the gum contacts the tooth may appear to have a ledge. This is often referred to as a “gummy” smile. In this instance, aesthetic crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure with the goal of establishing proper gingival contours while exposing the complete crown of the tooth.

Nearly everyone who is general good health is a candidate for crown lengthening. The first step in the procedure is an examination and consultation with Dr. Fritz or Dr. Schuldt. On the day of the procedure, the hard and soft tissue is very delicately and carefully re-contoured using microsurgical procedures.

Am I a candidate for Crown Lengthening?

A crown lengthening may be requested for people who experience a “gummy smile.” Often, their teeth seem short. In fact, their teeth are average size, they just happen to be covered in excess gum tissue.

A crown lengthening procedure removes this excess tissue and shapes the gum line so that the smile appears more symmetrcial.

Most people in good general health are good candidates for crown lengthening.

Is Crown Lengthening painful?

During your crown lengthening procedure, you will be profoundly frozen and will not feel anything.

Typically, our patients report very little, if any pain when the effects of the local anesthetic wear away. All of our patients are able to manage their discomfort with Ibuprofen, if necessary.

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