501 Madison Ave 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10022
Crown Lengthening
Why would I need crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is usually performed to improve the health of the gum tissue, prepare the mouth for a procedure, or correct a “gummy smile”. A “gummy smile” is used to describe an instance where teeth are covered with excess gum tissue resulting in a less esthetically-pleasing smile. The procedure involves reshaping or recontouring the gum tissue and bone around the tooth in question to create a new gum-to–tooth relationship. Crown lengthening can be performed on a single tooth, many teeth, or the entire gum line.
Crown lengthening is often required when your tooth needs a new crown or other restoration. The edge of that restoration is deep below the gum tissue and not immediately accessible. It is also usually too close to the bone or below the bone.
Crown lengthening allows us to reach the edge of the restoration, ensuring a proper fit to the tooth. It should also provide enough tooth structure so the new restoration will not come loose in the future. This allows you to clean the edge of the restoration when you brush and floss to prevent decay and gum disease.
For more information about Crown Lengthening or to schedule a consultation with Madison Avenue Periodontics, call our office in New York, New York at (212) 755-1144.
About the Crown Lengthening Procedure
Crown lengthening takes approximately one hour but will largely depend on the amount of teeth involved and if any amount of bone will need to be removed. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic and involves a series of small incisions around the tissue to separate the gums from the teeth. Even if only one tooth requires the procedure, it will probably be necessary to adjust the surrounding teeth to enable a more even reshaping. In some cases, extraction of a small amount of bone will be necessary as well.
When Dr. Neary, Dr. Lanzetta, Dr. Chondrogiannis or Dr. Elhein is satisfied that the teeth have sufficient exposure and the procedure is completed, the incisions will be cleaned with sterile water. Sutures and a protective bandage are then placed to help secure the new gum-to-tooth relationship. Your teeth will look noticeably longer immediately after surgery because the gums have now been repositioned. You will need to be seen in one or two weeks to remove the sutures and evaluate your healing. The surgical site should be completely healed in approximately two to three months following the procedure.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that reshapes the gum tissue and, in some cases, the underlying bone to expose more of the natural tooth structure. This treatment may be recommended to prepare a tooth for restoration or to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile.
When is crown lengthening needed?
Crown lengthening may be necessary when a tooth is damaged below the gumline or when there is not enough visible tooth structure to properly support a dental crown or restoration. It can also be performed for cosmetic reasons to create a more balanced and proportionate smile.
Is crown lengthening considered a cosmetic or functional procedure?
Crown lengthening can serve both cosmetic and restorative purposes. Some patients undergo treatment to improve smile aesthetics, while others require the procedure to help preserve and restore damaged teeth.
How long does recovery take after crown lengthening?
Initial healing generally takes about one to two weeks, although complete gum tissue healing and contour stabilization may take several months. Our periodontist will monitor your healing progress closely during follow-up appointments.
Does crown lengthening affect surrounding teeth?
No. Crown lengthening is carefully performed in the specific treatment area and is designed to preserve the health of the surrounding teeth, gums, and supporting structures.
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