Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that can be performed for restorative or cosmetic purposes. If you’ve asked your dentist on how to improve a “gummy” smile, crown lengthening may be the solution. Your teeth may be the proper length but are covered by too much gum tissue. During crown lengthening, excess gum tissue isCrown Lenghtening removed and the bone is reshaped to expose more of the tooth structure resulting in a broader smile.
In restorative cases, crown lengthening is performed when a tooth needs to be restored and there is not enough naturally exposed tooth structure to support the procedure. In these cases, the tooth may be broken below the gum line or have extensive decay lacking the support a crown or a bridge needs. Only after more of the tooth is exposed, will your periodontist be able to perform a reinforced restoration. In either case, crown lengthening improves both the look and functionality of your teeth, giving you a confident smile that lasts. In other words, if a tooth needs a crown and that tooth does not have another tooth structure to support the crown, a crown lenghening procedure will need to be performed in order for the crown to stay on the tooth. Otherwise, it is likely that the tooth itself may need to be extracted.
If you live in or around Bellevue, and you have any questions, contact us or fill out an appointment request form today to schedule a consultation with one of our periodontists. Our specialists are experts in evaluating your oral health and will advise you along the appropriate treatment process.
