Are you concerned about the appearance or health of your smile?
Crown lengthening might be the solution you’ve been looking for. This dental procedure, often recommended by dentists, goes beyond simple cosmetic changes—it can improve your oral health and ensure that your restorations fit properly.
Whether you’re dealing with hidden cavities or seeking to enhance your smile’s proportions, crown lengthening can make a noticeable difference.
In this blog, we’ll explore five key reasons why crown lengthening may be necessary for you. From treating tooth decay and fractures to creating a more balanced smile, understanding the procedure can empower you to make the right decisions for your dental care.
Ready to learn more?
Let’s dive in!
Reason 1: Tooth Decay Below the Gum Line
If decay extends below the gum line, traditional fillings may not be enough to restore the tooth. Crown lengthening becomes essential to expose healthy tooth structure for a successful crown placement. This procedure removes a small amount of gum and bone tissue, allowing the dentist to treat the decay properly.
- Crown lengthening helps eliminate decay and provides a strong foundation for a dental crown.
- The procedure creates enough visible tooth structure for proper crown fitting.
- It prevents further tooth damage, ensuring better long-term oral health.
- Exposing healthy tooth tissue improves the success rate of the restoration.
When tooth decay hides beneath the gum line, crown lengthening is often the best option to preserve your tooth and protect your smile.
Reason 2: Broken or Fractured Teeth
Fractures or breaks below the gum line can be difficult to repair. In these cases, crown lengthening helps create a solid foundation for restoration. By exposing more of the damaged tooth, your dentist can restore its function and aesthetics more effectively.
- Crown lengthening exposes more tooth structure for easier restoration.
- It provides a stable base for crowns, fillings, or other treatments.
- The procedure restores a fractured tooth’s appearance and strength.
- It ensures a better seal and reduces the risk of further damage.
For teeth fractured beneath the gum line, crown lengthening ensures effective treatment and a lasting restoration.
Reason 3: Preparing for a Dental Crown
Before placing a dental crown, crown lengthening is essential to ensure a proper fit and long-lasting results. The procedure removes excess gum tissue and reshapes the bone, allowing the crown to sit securely on the tooth and function optimally.
- Crown lengthening ensures a snug fit for the dental crown.
- It helps prevent crown failure due to improper alignment.
- The procedure ensures the crown is durable and comfortable.
- It enhances the overall function and longevity of the crown.
Reason 4: Aesthetic Reasons: Gummy Smile
A “gummy” smile, where excessive gum tissue covers too much of the teeth, can be corrected through crown lengthening. By removing excess gum tissue, the procedure creates a more balanced and proportionate smile, improving aesthetics.
- Crown lengthening reshapes the gum line for a more attractive smile.
- It enhances the tooth-to-gum ratio, improving the overall look of your teeth.
- The procedure helps balance the facial features and smile.
- It boosts confidence by revealing more of your natural teeth.
For those who feel self-conscious about their gummy smile, crown lengthening can provide a more harmonious and beautiful appearance.
Reason 5: Periodontal Health Concerns
Crown lengthening is sometimes necessary to improve periodontal health, particularly if there’s a risk of gum disease. By exposing more of the tooth structure, it allows for more effective cleaning and treatment, reducing the chance of future complications.
- The procedure gives better access to cleaning below the gum line.
- It helps remove bacteria and tartar buildup, reducing infection risks.
- Crown lengthening can promote healthier gums and teeth.
- It reduces the likelihood of developing gum disease in the future.
Crown lengthening is essential to address critical dental health concerns, too. Whether you need it for decay, fractures, or a gummy smile, this procedure ensures long-term oral health and enhances your smile’s appearance. If you’re facing any of these issues, talk to our team to see if crown lengthening is the right choice for you!
