Your smile is a big part of your life, and sometimes a tooth needs extra help to be healthy or look like you want it to look. You might need a dental crown for strength, or you may wish to improve the appearance of your smile. In these cases, a specific dental procedure can make all the difference.
Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure that reshapes your gum line to expose more of your natural tooth. This process can create space for restorative work or help achieve a more balanced look for your smile.
Why You Might Need Crown Lengthening
The procedure is usually recommended for three reasons—to help restore a tooth’s function, to change the look of your smile, or to access a cavity below the gum line.
To Support a Dental Crown
Sometimes, a tooth doesn’t have enough structure showing above the gum line to hold a crown securely. This can happen if a tooth breaks off at the gum line or is suffering from significant decay.
Crown lengthening exposes more of your tooth, so that a new crown can be fitted properly.
To Correct a “Gummy Smile”
For some people, the gums cover more of their teeth than they would like, which can create what is often called a “gummy smile.” Crown lengthening can reshape the gum line to reveal more of the tooth’s surface, making it one of several cosmetic dentistry options that create a more balanced smile.
To Access a Cavity or Break Below the Gumline
Decay or fractures can sometimes occur below they gum line where they are hard to reach. Crown lengthening allows your dentist to have access to these hidden spots. This makes it possible to properly clean and repair the tooth.
Prepare for Your Appointment
Before the procedure, you’ll have an initial consultation. Your dentist will review your dental needs and explain what you can expect. This is a great time to ask any questions you have.
Your Health History & X-rays
It’s important to be open about your health history and any medications you’re taking. Your dental team will also use digital x-rays to look at the tooth roots and surrounding bone. This information will help them plan your procedure carefully.
The Crown Lengthening Procedure Step-by-Step
The procedure itself is straightforward and happens during a single appointment. Your dental team will walk you through each part of the process. The main goal is to expose the right amount of your tooth.
How We Keep You Comfortable
Your comfort matters, so we’ll provide you with a local anesthetic to completely numb the area. You’ll be awake during the procedure, which is performed either in our dental office or at a periodontist office. We’ll do whatever we can to make your experience pleasant.
Reshape the Gum & Bone Tissue
Once the local anesthetic has taken effect, your dentist gently moves the gum tissue away from the tooth. They then remove small amounts of gum tissue—and sometimes a little bone—to expose more of the tooth. This process reveals more of your natural tooth, including parts of the root.
Close & Protect the Area
After reshaping the area, your dentist will clean it with a sterile solution. They’ll then place sutures to help the gums heal in their new position. A protective bandage may also be applied over the site to keep it safe.
Your Recovery & Aftercare
Full healing usually takes about three months, but you can return to most of your normal activities very quickly. Your gums will need some time to settle before the final step of your treatment can be completed. Follow any aftercare instructions to help support a smooth recovery.
Is Crown Lengthening Painful?
You can expect some discomfort after the anesthetic wears off, similar to what you might feel after other dental work. This is typically manageable with pain relievers that your dentist prescribes or recommends. The discomfort usually lessens within a few days.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Following a few simple guidelines can help you heal well.
- Take pain relievers as directed by your dentist.
- Use an ice pack on your face 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first few hours to reduce swelling.
- Avoid hot foods and drinks for the first 24 hours.
- Eat a diet of soft foods, and avoid anything hard, spicy, or sticky.
- Brush your teeth carefully and follow proper brushing techniques, especially around the surgical area.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking while the area heals.
- Do not poke the site with your tongue or use a straw.
Schedule Your Final Restoration
After the procedure, your gums need time to heal before your final crown is placed. This waiting period is typically around six to eight weeks for restorative work. For cosmetic changes, your dentist may suggest waiting a few months to ensure the gum line is stable.
Every person’s dental situation is unique, and it’s important to explore all your options. A conversation with one of our dentists in South Edmonton can help you decide on the right path for your oral health.
To learn more, contact Southgate Dental Centre to schedule a consultation with our team.
