The Whitmar Medical Dental Building - 16315 Whittier Blvd., Suite 203, Whittier, CA 90603Crown lengthening is a versatile dental procedure designed to improve both the function and aesthetics of your smile. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile due to excessive gum tissue, often referred to as a “gummy smile,” crown lengthening could be the solution you are looking for. This condition makes your teeth appear shorter than they actually are because of the overgrowth of gum tissue. By removing a small portion of this tissue, we can expose more of your natural tooth structure, resulting in a more balanced and appealing smile.
In addition to enhancing your smile’s appearance, crown lengthening can be crucial for certain restorative dental procedures. For example, if a tooth is broken or decayed below the gumline, or if there is not enough tooth structure above the gumline to support a restoration like a crown or bridge, our dentist may recommend crown lengthening. This procedure will expose more of the tooth, providing the necessary foundation for a secure and long-lasting restoration.
The crown lengthening procedure is typically performed in a single visit to our office. Our skilled periodontist will carefully reshape the gum tissue and, if necessary, adjust the bone around the teeth to achieve the desired results. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and by following our post-operative care instructions. Healing usually takes a few weeks, during which your gums will gradually conform to their new shape.
Crown lengthening offers numerous benefits beyond improving your smile’s appearance. It can also enhance your oral health by making it easier to clean your teeth and gums, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease. If you think crown lengthening might be right for you, or if you have any questions about the procedure, we invite you to contact our office today. Our team is here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that you can confidently share with the world.
