Crown Lengthening San Jose, CA
Crown lengthening may be an unfamiliar term for many patients. Crown lengthening involves the removal of excess gum tissue, bone, or both to expose more of the crown, also known as the part of the tooth visible above the gum line. It can be done as part of a restorative dental procedure or for cosmetic reasons. Periodontists commonly perform this type of procedure.
Crown lengthening is available at Bay Area Dental & Implant Center in San Jose and the surrounding area. We can help you attain a more natural appealing smile. Call us at (408) 217-6653 to schedule an appointment to see if the procedure is the right fit.
Crown Lengthening 101
Crown lengthening involves a periodontist removing gum tissue and sometimes bone to increase tooth visibility. It can be done on one or several teeth or even the entire gum line. Enough gum tissue will be left to keep the teeth healthy and functioning properly. Periodontists often perform crown lengthening for cosmetic reasons.
The procedure also allows for exposure of cavities or fractures below the gum line. It may also help expose more of a tooth before fitting a restorative device such as a crown or bridge. The procedure is not the right choice for everyone. Patients who are interested in crown lengthening should discuss the procedure with a periodontist.
“Crown lengthening involves a periodontist removing gum tissue and sometimes bone to increase tooth visibility.”
When Crown Lengthening is Necessary
Some patients who require a crown on their tooth may need crown lengthening to make that possible. Perhaps the tooth has broken off at the gum line, or the gum line extends too far up the tooth for effective tooth restoration. It can also be necessary if the tooth is not strong enough for a restoration or there is evidence of decay.
Patients can also request crown lengthening for cosmetic reasons. For example, if a person has a "gummy smile," this procedure can make the teeth look longer. Our periodontist will let patients know if they are a good candidate for this cosmetic procedure.
“Some patients who require a crown on their tooth may need crown lengthening to make that possible.”
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening has various advantages, whether it is for cosmetic or functional reasons. There are several benefits of undergoing a crown lengthening procedure, including:
- Saving the tooth: Crown lengthening can allow for a dental crown to be placed, saving as much of the natural tooth as possible.
- Reduced risk of tooth decay: Oral health problems such as tooth decay are less likely to occur when the tooth is exposed for proper cleaning.
- Support a filling: It is challenging to put in a filling when there is excess gum tissue.
- Improving the smile: This procedure can correct an inconsistent gum line and create a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Crown lengthening performed by a board-certified periodontist is an efficient and effective procedure. Patients can expect to increase the health and longevity of their teeth. By following the aftercare instructions and maintaining good oral health, patients minimize the risks associated with this procedure.
“Crown lengthening performed by a board-certified periodontist is an efficient and effective procedure.”
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The Treatment Process
Patients who undergo crown lengthening typically receive a combination of local anesthesia and a sedative. The periodontist will use a scalpel, laser, or both to remove gum tissue and bone if necessary. Once we achieve the desired results, we will thoroughly clean the area and stitch the remaining gum tissue into place.
From start to finish, crown lengthening can take several visits to complete. The steps include:
- Initial visit: The patient will review their X-rays with the periodontist, go over the treatment plan, and schedule the procedure.
- Crown lengthening: The next visit will be the actual procedure.
- Follow-up treatment: The patient will need to come in about a week later to remove any stitches, and the periodontist can check on the healing process.
- Restorative work: Once the gums have completely healed, the tooth is ready for any restorative work such as a crown or bridge.
“From start to finish, crown lengthening can take several visits to complete.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What is a crown lengthening procedure?
Q. When is crown lengthening necessary? Can crown lengthening be done for cosmetic reasons?
Q. What are the benefits of crown lengthening?
Post-Treatment Guidelines
It can take up to three months for the gums to fully heal from a crown lengthening. Initially, patients will need to avoid hot foods for the first 24 hours after the procedure and avoid strenuous activity for the first 2-3 days post-procedure. Heavy lifting or exertion can cause more bleeding and make it harder for the gums to heal.
The periodontist will typically recommend over-the-counter pain medication or prescribe antibiotics. Patients should eat soft foods during the healing process, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid alcohol and tobacco products. They should continue to brush the chewing surface of the teeth that were treated and brush and floss the rest of the teeth as normal.
“It can take up to three months for the gums to fully heal from a crown lengthening.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is a crown lengthening painful?
A. Patients will receive a local anesthetic or a sedative to make the crown lengthening procedure more comfortable. Post-procedure, patients can expect some moderate discomfort for about the first week. The periodontist will instruct patients on how to manage any pain.
Q. Can the gums grow back?
A. There is a very slight risk of the gums growing back after crown lengthening. The periodontist will often trim back some of the bone, which allows the gum to reattach to the tooth at the higher gum line. Our staff will make sure patients are comfortable with the prescribed treatment plan.
Q. What are the risks following crown lengthening?
A. Infection is the main concern following crown lengthening. An antibiotic may be prescribed to help prevent that. Bleeding is another concern that the patient will need to watch closely for. It is important to follow all the post-operative instructions to reduce the risk of complications.
Q. Is crown lengthening safe?
A. Crown lengthening is a routine procedure that has very few complications. Once a patient has fully healed, they often experience better overall oral hygiene. This is true whether the procedure was done for cosmetic or restorative reasons.
Q. How long does crown lengthening take?
A. The duration of the procedure varies from patient to patient. It is mostly dependent on the number of teeth being treated and bone removal. Crown lengthening is considered an outpatient procedure, and patients can go home on the same day.
Definitions
Learn More About Crown Lengthening
Whether an individual is exploring crown lengthening for cosmetic reasons or a procedure necessary for overall oral health, it is important to understand the process. Our staff will answer any questions and make sure they are comfortable prior to the day of the procedure. Call Bay Area Dental & Implant Center at (408) 217-6653 to schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). 2024
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Periodontal Disease Page. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Periodontal Disease Page. 2024
- WebMD, What Is a Periodontist?. WebMD, What Is a Periodontist?. 2024
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