About Crown Lengthening
Skilled general dentist Dr. Fesaha Gebrehiwot is experienced in crown lengthening procedures to improve the visual appeal and health of your smile. Crown lengthening may come off as an odd term to some because it sounds like it entails making the tooth longer. A more accurate term is crown exposure since gum (and sometimes bone) tissues are gently reduced to reveal more of the tooth. You may consider crown lengthening for aesthetic reasons if you would like to transform a “gummy” smile for a wider, more balanced result. Functional crown lengthening may also be performed if an insufficient amount of enamel is visible to hold a dental crown, filling, or other restoration. To learn more about how crown lengthening may improve your oral health and smile, schedule a consultation at Trusted Dental Care in Wylie, TX.
Are You a Candidate?
If you are considering crown lengthening, you should be in good overall health. Problems such as gum (periodontal) disease might have to be addressed before crown lengthening is performed. Most frequently, crown lengthening is recommended for aesthetic reasons to address a “gummy” smile or teeth that appear to short in relation to the gums. In these circumstances, excess gum and bone tissue may be eliminated to improve the proportion of tooth to gums and give you an even, attractive gumline. However, crown lengthening may also be required to perform a dental restoration. Dr. G. might need to uncover more of the tooth create the space necessary to properly place a crown, bridge, or filling and reestablish oral function.
The Crown Lengthening Process
Before the crown lengthening procedure, a local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area and minimize any discomfort. You may talk with Dr. G. during your consultation about receiving nitrous oxide sedation to help keep you comfortable and calm during the treatment. When your mouth is ready, excess gum (and possible bone) tissue will be removed incrementally to gradually reveal more of the enamel and your gumline will be shaped for a lifted and even look. In many cases, our advanced soft tissue laser will be performed for crown lengthening procedures, which cauterizes and seals the tissues as it treats the gums.
After Your Procedure
Following your crown lengthening procedure, your mouth may be slightly tender or swollen. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can be utilized to minimize your discomfort. It can be helpful to stick to a liquid or soft food diet for several days as your gums heal. Our team will provide specific instructions on how to clean and care for your mouth at home over the duration of your healing process. At each of your routine dental checkup visits, Dr. G. will continue to evaluate the health and appearance of your gum tissues.
Insurance Coverage
Dental insurance providers may cover a portion of a crown lengthening procedure in certain scenarios, depending on the reason for the treatment. In any event, our financial staff will get in touch with your provider to learn about your benefits and let you know about any anticipated personal expenses. Our team at Trusted Dental Care is pleased to review your payment choices, including flexible financing solutions, to help make your dental visit as affordable as possible.
Repair a Gummy Smile
Whether you want to improve the quality of your smile or oral health, we invite you to learn more about crown lengthening treatments at Trusted Dental Care. By eliminating excess gum and bone tissue, we can enhance the overall look of a “gummy” smile or prepare your mouth for a restoration. Schedule an appointment with Dr. G. today to determine if you are a candidate for aesthetic or functional crown lengthening treatments at our office in Wylie, TX.