Do you have a gummy smile? Although you may believe it’s only an aesthetic issue, excess gum tissue can have adverse complications for your oral health. Your dentist may recommend crown lengthening to promote a beautiful, healthy smile. Besides making your teeth appear larger, the procedure is used for other purposes, too. Here are the most common reasons why crown lengthening is necessary.
What is Crown Lengthening?
Many people believe the appearance of their teeth is the only component of an attractive smile; however, your gum line is equally important. Crown lengthening is also known as gum recontouring. It’s a procedure that removes and sculpts the gingival tissue to improve the gum line. If your teeth look disproportionate or your gum line has excessive or diseased tissue, you may be a candidate for the procedure.
Traditionally, scalpels and sutures were used to perform the treatment, but technological advancements offer an alternative solution. A dental laser can sculpt the tissue with pinpoint accuracy, offering a less invasive and more successful method.
Why is Crown Lengthening Needed?
Your dentist may suggest crown lengthening for several issues, such as:
- Not enough tooth surface to apply a restoration, like a crown or veneer.
- Not enough tooth to hold the crown on its own.
- Broken or decayed tooth that won’t allow for a crown to fit securely.
- Excess tissue covering too much of a tooth’s surface.
- Improve oral hygiene.
- Resolve a gummy smile.
- Treat periodontal disease,
- An unattractive gum line.
How is the Procedure Performed?
Your dentist may apply a local anesthetic to numb the tissue before starting, but it isn’t always necessary. They’ll use a small handheld device to target the tissue to remove it with unmatched precision. The laser sterilizes the tissue while it cuts to reduce the risk of infection. As a result, it can also be used as a treatment for gum disease. The gingival pockets will be cleaned, allowing the tissue to reattach to your teeth.
Laser gum contouring promotes a quicker recovery because the device also cauterizes the area to minimize bleeding and swelling. Generally, it will take about 2-3 days to heal, instead of multiple weeks like with the traditional method.
What are the Benefits of Laser Crown Lengthening?
If your dentist recommends crown lengthening, it’s for good reason. You’ll enjoy several advantages, such as:
- Proportionate, attractive teeth.
- Better oral health.
- Natural-looking results.
- Minimally invasive procedure.
- Less risk of infection, bleeding, and swelling.
- Treat periodontal disease.
You don’t need to live with a less-than-perfect smile. Your dentist can create the picture-perfect results you want using the latest advancements in dentistry. Find out if you’re a candidate for crown lengthening today.
About Dr. John-Michael Stewart
Dr. Stewart earned his dental degree at the Boston University School of Dental Medicine before continuing his education in oral surgery. He specialized in advanced treatments, like laser dentistry and dental implants. He combines the art and science of dentistry to help each patient achieve their best smile. If you’re interested in crown lengthening, contact our office today.