Crown Lengthening in Plantation
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.
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About the Crown Lengthening Procedure
Crown lengthening takes approximately one hour but will largely depend on the number 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. Grenier is satisfied that the teeth have sufficient exposure and the procedure is completed, sutures 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 evaluate your healing. The surgical site should be completely healed in approximately one to two months following the procedure.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CROWN LENGTHENING:
Is the procedure painful?
Answer: Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Patients may experience mild pain or swelling afterward, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does the procedure take?
Answer: Crown lengthening typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case.
What is the recovery process like?
Answer: Recovery can take a few days to a couple of weeks. Patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding certain foods and practicing good oral hygiene.
Are there any risks associated with crown lengthening?
Answer: Risks are minimal but may include infection, excessive bleeding, or changes in tooth sensitivity. These complications are rare with proper care.
How long do the results last?
Answer: The results of crown lengthening are typically permanent, as the tissue and bone that are reshaped do not grow back.
Will I need to take time off work?
Answer: Most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two, but it depends on individual recovery.