The Wholesome Guide to Dental Crown Lengthening Procedure
The fact that you're looking up dental crown lengthening comes to show that you probably have the basic information about it.
This means you would know that the procedure is preferred by people who have a gummy smile. It would seem as though these people have smaller teeth. While it may seem so, the truth is that the teeth are of the same size as an average person. The gum tissue is in excess and tends to cover the visible portion of the teeth partially.
Another reason people opt for the procedure is to hide the broken or decayed areas of the teeth.
Choose an expert periodontist, i.e., a gum specialist for dental crown lengthening, and talk to them before making a decision.
Crown Lengthening Explained
It is essential to have more clarity about the crown. These are caps shaped like teeth and are supposed to fit on the original tooth like a glove. The fix should be firm and perfect for the purpose to be solved.
The process shall be performed in any of the following cases:
- Get a clear picture of the cavities under the gums.
- Fix the look of the teeth.
- Find teeth that may have been fractured.
- The periodontist may have to carry out the procedure on a singular tooth or a series of teeth, depending on what issue needs to be addressed.
In simple terms, the dental crown lengthening process is when the dentist removes some soft tissue of the gums so that more of the tooth can be seen. In some cases, the bone might also have to be removed.
You don't need to worry about your oral health because the periodontist will make sure they leave behind enough gum structure. This process is also known as the biological width of the gums.
The Process
As we've already explained, the periodontist of your choice will remove any extra gum tissue from your teeth and reshape the bone tissue.
They will collect your medical history and get X-rays to examine the status of your gums and teeth. Keep them informed about other medications you take regularly.
Some of the dental crown lengthening procedure techniques include:
- Apically repositioned flap surgery- a flap is created in the gum tissue with a decent size of the incision that ensures sufficient removal of tissue and bone (if necessary) depending on the tooth's amount to be exposed.
- Gingivectomy- the doctor will use a scalpel, electrocautery, or a laser to remove gum tissue under total anesthesia.
- Surgical extrusion - the tooth is placed at the desired spot on the gum line with the help of surgery.
It's best to have a conversation with your doctor and guide you through the dental crown lengthening process of selecting the best techniques to follow for your crown lengthening process.
Your condition may be any of the following and will thus determine which method your dentist will choose:
- Position of the teeth being considered for the procedure
- Signs of bone loss
- Aesthetic preferences
- Root proximity
- Whether a filling will do the job or will a cap be necessary
- Condition of the root
If you're looking for dentists in Fort Collins, then get in touch with us.
Preparing for the Process
Find a trustworthy doctor and do your research before deciding on whether or not to get crown lengthening. A primary consideration for the procedure has to be determining the level of your overall and oral health. If you don't have healthy gums, maybe stay away from the entire process.
Here's a list of things you can do to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy:
- Brush your teeth, at least once every day and twice if possible
- Use a mouthwash at least once
- Follow brushing your teeth with floss
- Yearly visits to the dentist are a must
Of course, there will be a proper evaluation conducted by your doctor before the dental crown lengthening procedure.
Recovering After the Procedure
The entire recovery plan will depend on the kind of surgery that your periodontist chose for you. They will be able to give you the perfect aftercare package.
Following the procedure, you might experience a lot more pain as the anesthesia is wearing off. The doctor will be working on the gums, which means that you might be left with inflammation in some places. To combat this, they might suggest specific anti-inflammatory medication, which will also help relieve the pain.
According to expert dentists in Fort Collins, it is advisable to gargle and rinse your mouth after every meal and ensure you're eating soft to chew foods.
This process will take you down the road to the initial healing phase, meaning the pain and inflammation will decrease. It is necessary to keep your periodontist updated on your oral health and get a check-up according to their instructions.
That said, in most cases, the entire healing process may take anywhere between six weeks to six months.
Conclusion
There are many reasons to get any dental procedure done, but the best way to go about it is to be upfront with your doctor and ask them if it's the right option for you.
When it comes to dental crown lengthening, you must understand that it is not a process for everyone. You can either visit a regular dentist or consult a gum specialist (periodontist).
If you suffer from a gummy smile and would like to change things, we can fix that for you!
Dr. Livingston provides the best periodontal and dental services to those who need it the most with a team of experts. Our commitment to excellence makes us one of the best dentists in Fort Collins. We've got a wide range of therapies, including the treatment and maintenance of healthy gums, dental implants, and overall oral health.
Get a consultation with us and understand your oral needs better.
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