Crown lengthening refers to a procedure in which gum tissue is carefully contoured in order to reveal more tooth structure. A crown lengthening procedure may be necessary to complete certain necessary procedures, or it can play a role in a smile makeover for cosmetic purposes.
When our Los Angeles dental implant specialist performs a crown lengthening procedure to improve the appearance of a gummy smile, or a smile that reveals excessive gum tissue, the area is carefully numbed. Then the excess tissue is reshaped and contoured, which exposes the natural tooth underneath. Crown lengthening can be performed for just one tooth or along the entire smile line to create a broader, more symmetrical smile.
A crown lengthening procedure may also be necessary when a tooth has broken off near the gumline or has been extensively damaged by decay in order to expose more tooth structure. This allows for more accurate placement of the dental crown. The procedure is quite similar as the cosmetic procedure, but the tooth is shaped after it has been exposed, and a dental crown is placed on it to complete the restoration.
If you have a gummy smile or your tooth has been significantly damaged and you need a crown, we can help. Our dentist will assess your smile and create a treatment plan that may include crown lengthening to provide you with a healthy, natural-looking smile. Contact our dental office today to learn more or to schedule your initial consultation.
Great article! Thanks for the good info. Seeing Dr Payne next week