Do I Need Crown Lengthening?
If your dentist has mentioned crown lengthening, you may be wondering what it is and why it might be necessary. Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure that involves reshaping the gum tissue and sometimes the bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface. Dentists often recommend it to prepare a tooth for a crown, but it can also be suggested for other reasons related to health or appearance. If you’ve been told you're a candidate for crown lengthening, it’s worth learning more about the procedure and how it might benefit your situation. Read on to understand why it might be right for you.
Why Would I Need Crown Lengthening?
There are a few reasons why your dentist might suggest crown lengthening. The most common is to make room for a crown or filling when there’s not enough exposed tooth above the gumline. If a tooth is broken, worn down, or has decayed below the gums, it can be difficult to securely place a restoration. Crown lengthening solves this by removing some of the surrounding gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth structure. This gives your dentist enough space to work with.
It can also be used to improve the appearance of your smile. Some people naturally have excess gum tissue that makes their teeth appear small or hidden, especially when they smile. This is sometimes referred to as a “gummy smile.” By reshaping the gumline, crown lengthening can create a more balanced and attractive smile.
In some cases, crown lengthening may be used as part of gum disease treatment. When gum tissue pulls away from the teeth and creates deep pockets, bacteria can collect and cause further damage. Reshaping the gums can reduce these pockets, which makes it easier to keep the area clean and healthy.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Crown lengthening is usually done in your dentist’s office under local anesthesia. This means you’ll be awake, but the area being treated will be numb so that you don’t feel pain. The dentist will make small cuts in the gum around the affected tooth to expose more of the tooth’s surface. If needed, a small amount of bone may also be removed to allow for better access and support. The entire procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many teeth are involved and how complex the case is.
Is Crown Lengthening Right for Me?
Your dentist will let you know if crown lengthening is the right choice based on your specific dental condition. It’s often recommended when there isn’t enough tooth structure visible for a crown to hold, but it can also be part of a larger treatment plan for cosmetic improvements or gum health.
If your dentist brings up crown lengthening, it’s because they believe it’s the best step to protect your oral health or help complete other necessary treatments. It’s a relatively simple procedure with long-term benefits, and it could make a big difference in the way your smile looks and functions.