Teeth can become shorter than usual in appearance due to the gums growing enough to cover more than normal amounts of your teeth. When this happens, dentists may choose crown lengthening procedures in order to expose more of the teeth. It can be performed as part of a cosmetic procedure, or may be required so dentists can perform other dental procedures.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

This is a surgical procedure in which the excess gum material is cut away – usually a small amount. Some bone tissue may also need to be removed. Temporary crowns may also be removed and then replaced when the surgery is complete. Once properly shaped, the gums are stitched in place to give you a beautiful smile.

The minor surgery is usually done in less than an hour by a periodontist. It is also normally completed under local anesthesia, but sedation can also be used if preferred.

Reasons Why Lengthening of the Crown May Be Necessary

Dentists refer to a condition called a “gummy smile.” This is when gums grow to cover much of the teeth, making them look shorter than usual. Reducing the gums makes the teeth look larger when smiling and more pleasant.

Another reason is that dentists may need to get access to more of the tooth. This can happen when a crown needs to be put on the tooth, but not much of it is currently visible. The tooth may have been broken off, or there simply is not enough of the tooth exposed for the dentist to be able to work on it. In other situations, a crown or filling may fall out, and the dentist finds that there is decay that must be removed.

This procedure may also be done when the gum line is not even. Cutting away enough gum material to make it even will often help the individual to get the perfect smile they always wanted.

Healing

Once the procedure is completed, it will take one or two weeks for the initial healing to take place. You will then go back to the periodontist’s office to have the stitches removed. A follow up visit will be needed in four to six weeks. It will take about three months after the surgery for complete healing to take place.

During the healing process, you will likely be placed on a diet of soft foods. The surgeon will give you some medication to help relieve pain. Some bleeding is to be expected afterwards, and there may be some face swelling, but ice will help.

Once healed, you will need to go back to the dentist’s office to get a checkup, and to get the treatment you needed. After that period you can take care of your teeth and gums as before, with brushing and flossing.

The dentists at Amazing Smile Dental NY, located in the Forest Hills area of Queens, New York, can provide crown lengthening services. Our friendly and professional dentists are family friendly and seek to provide pain-free dentistry for all members of the family. Call us today at (718) 674-6478 to make an appointment.