Dental Crown Lengthening for Improved Aesthetics and Function
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Dentist Eden Prairie
Crown lengthening is an advanced procedure designed to enhance both the appearance and function of your smile by removing excess gum tissue. This treatment is particularly beneficial for individuals with a “gummy” smile, where excess gum coverage makes teeth appear shorter or out of proportion. It is also essential for patients who need improved access to the tooth structure for dental repairs, such as treating decay or damage. During crown lengthening, our doctors carefully reshape and reposition the gums, and if necessary, contour the underlying bone to expose more of the tooth above the gumline.
This process not only creates a balanced, attractive smile but also supports functional improvements by allowing better access for restorative treatments. Ultimately, crown lengthening at Waterford Dental boosts both the aesthetics and health of your teeth and gums, creating a harmonious and functional smile.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
1
Enhanced Aesthetics
Crown lengthening removes excess gum tissue, resulting in a more balanced and proportionate smile. This procedure reduces gum prominence and creates the appearance of longer teeth, enhancing overall aesthetics and boosting confidence in your smile.
2
Improved Functionality
The procedure provides improved access to tooth structure for restorative treatments, such as addressing decay or damage, and can also assist in managing gum infections, promoting better overall oral health and facilitating effective dental repairs.
3
Increased Tooth Structure Visibility
Exposing additional tooth structure creates a more secure foundation for dental crowns, fillings, and other restorations, significantly enhancing long-term dental health and stability while ensuring optimal function and aesthetics for the treated teeth.
How Crown Lengthening Works
Improved Aesthetics and Function
Dentist Eden Prairie
Crown lengthening is a procedure designed to reshape the gums and, when necessary, the underlying bone to expose more of the tooth, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing result. Here’s how it works:
Step 1
Local anesthesia is administered to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.
Step 2
Excess gum tissue is carefully removed, and the underlying bone is contoured if necessary, to expose more of the tooth structure.
Step 3
The area is thoroughly cleaned, and the gums are reshaped to create a natural, balanced appearance. Healing is monitored to ensure optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is typically performed to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile or to provide better access to the tooth structure for restorative treatments.
Is the procedure painful?
Crown lengthening is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that the procedure is comfortable. After treatment, any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does crown lengthening take?
The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of teeth involved.
What happens after crown lengthening?
You may need follow-up visits to ensure proper healing. Temporary restorative treatments may be placed during healing, and a permanent restoration can be completed once the gums have fully healed.
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“What a wonderful experience! The whole team was fantastic. Everyone is so friendly and caring. I have never had a more enjoyable experience at a dentist.”
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