Crown Lengthening Procedure

During a dental crown lengthening procedure, excess gum and bone tissue are reshaped to expose more of the natural tooth. This can be done to one tooth, to the gum line, or to several teeth to expose a natural, broad smile. Dr. Afar may also recommend crown lengthening surgery to make restorative or cosmetic dentistry procedures possible perhaps if a tooth is decayed, broken below the gum line, or has insufficient tooth structure for a restoration, such as a crown or bridge. CL adjusts the gum and bone level to expose more of the tooth so it can be restored.

Crown Lengthening

 

Do I Need Crown Lengthening Surgery?

A professional cleaning may be required by the patient. The surgeon may place a temporary crown if the patient needs a crown. Not only does the temporary crown protects the tooth, but allows the surgeon to measure how much tissue or bone to remove.

How is Crown Lengthening performed?

Using local anesthetic, the gums will be cut and peeled away to expose the roots of the teeth. Gum tissue and surrounding bone will be removed by the periodontist from around the roots of the teeth. Hand instruments and rotary instruments are used to remove bone. The area will be irrigated with sterile saline once enough of the tooth has been exposed, and the gums will be stitched together. A surgical dressing known as an intraoral may be used to cover the surgical site.

In the case that only one tooth needs crown lengthening, the neighboring teeth may be included at the discretion of the surgeon so that gum tissues are reshaped. Since the gums are now shorter, the teeth will appear longer post-surgery.

What To Do After Crown Lengthening Surgery?

A pain reliever and a mouth rinse will be prescribed to you. You may place an ice pack on your face to reduce swelling. You will also need to follow a soft diet. Teeth near the stitches can be brushed, but avoid the gums. Do not floss, use a toothpick or a water irrigator when removing food particles. You will be asked to return in 7 to 10 days for a follow-up. A month after the initial procedure when the gums have fully healed, the tooth is prepared for restoration or final crown.