Crown lengthening: Restore function and form healthy Smile

CROWN LENGTHENING HOUSTON

Crown lengthening is a common dental surgical procedure done for exposing more of a tooth’s structure by reshaping or removing gum tissue and, crown lengthening houston in some cases, the underlying bone. This is done to improve the appearance of the gum line or to prepare a tooth for restorative dental procedures such as crowns, fillings, or bridges.

There are both functional and aesthetic reasons for crown lengthening. Functionally, it is often necessary when a tooth is broken or decayed below the gum line, crown lengthening houston making it difficult for a dentist to access the tooth structure for proper restoration..

Aesthetically, crown lengthening is used in cosmetic dentistry to correct what's often called a "gummy smile," where excessive gum tissue makes teeth appear too short. By reshaping the gum line, a dentist can create a more balanced and pleasing smile, crown lengthening houston revealing more of the natural tooth enamel and improving overall proportions.

The procedure is typically performed by a periodontist (a specialist in gum treatments) under local anesthesia. Depending on the case, crown lengthening houston the process may involve trimming the soft tissue alone or, if necessary, removing a small amount of bone around the tooth as well. The length of the procedure depends on how many teeth are involved and the complexity of the case.

After the surgery, patients can expect some swelling and discomfort, which is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. Full healing of the gums may take several weeks, but most patients can return to normal daily activities within a day or two.

Crown lengthening offers significant benefits, including better oral health, improved function of dental restorations, and enhanced aesthetics. crown lengthening houston However, like any surgical procedure, it carries minor risks such as infection, bleeding, or changes in tooth sensitivity. With proper care and follow-up visits, these risks are minimal.