Are you self-conscious about having small teeth or showing too much gum when you smile? With crown lengthening, you can enhance your smile painlessly and effectively. This procedure removes excess gum tissue to expose more of your tooth, improving both the aesthetics and function of your smile.
What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a procedure that removes excess gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth’s crown. It’s commonly done to correct a “gummy smile,” but it’s also used in cases where a tooth is broken or decayed beneath the gum line. By exposing more of the tooth, dentists can access the area to restore it properly.
How is Crown Lengthening Performed?
The procedure involves making a small incision to lift the gum, followed by the removal of excess tissue. Sutures are then placed, and the area is left to heal. Crown lengthening can be performed using both traditional methods and laser technology.
Why Laser Crown Lengthening is Advantageous
Laser crown lengthening offers several key benefits over traditional methods:
- Less Invasive: The laser allows for more precise removal of tissue, resulting in minimal discomfort.
- Minimal Bleeding and Swelling: The laser seals blood vessels as it cuts, reducing bleeding and post-procedure swelling.
- Faster Healing: Recovery with laser crown lengthening typically takes 1-2 weeks, compared to 4-6 weeks with traditional surgery.
- Highly Precise: Lasers provide more control, reducing the risk of damaging surrounding structures
- Minimal Anesthesia: In many cases, little or no anesthesia is required.
How is Laser Crown Lengthening Performed?
- Planning: Initially your periodontist marks the amount of gum tissue to be removed.
- Laser Application: After protecting the surrounding area, the laser is used to gently remove the excess tissue.
- Additional Procedures: In some cases, other treatments may be performed alongside crown lengthening to achieve optimal results.
- Recovery After Laser Crown Lengthening: Laser crown lengthening offers a significantly shorter recovery time—usually just 1-2 weeks, compared to the 4-6 weeks required with traditional surgery. This allows you to return to your normal routine much sooner.
Who Should Consider Crown Lengthening?
- Excessive Tooth Decay: When decay is present under the gum line, crown lengthening can expose the area for proper treatment.
- Gummy Smile: For those who show too much gum when smiling, this procedure can improve the appearance of the smile.
- Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, crown lengthening may be necessary after orthodontic treatment.
- Supra-Erupted Teeth: Crown lengthening is also useful for teeth that have moved out of alignment and require more space for restorations or opposing teeth.
Who Performs Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is typically performed by a periodontist, a specialist in gum disease and surgical procedures involving the gums and bone. With laser technology, periodontists can perform this procedure with greater precision and minimal risk to surrounding tissues.
At ToothHQ, our board-certified periodontists have been offering state-of-the-art treatments for over three decades. You can achieve the smile of your dreams with our painless, minimally invasive crown lengthening procedure. If you’re ready to transform your smile, reach out to ToothHQ today for a no-cost dental consultation! Also, do check out our exclusive dental deals.
