The Secret to a Confident Smile: How Crown Lengthening Can Transform Your Look

Do you wish you had a more attractive smile? Are you self-conscious about your "gummy" smile or short teeth? Do you have a broken or decayed tooth and need a crown? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might benefit from a crown-lengthening dental procedure. It is a simple and effective way to improve your smile and oral health.
 

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a dental surgery that makes your teeth look longer by reshaping your gums and bone. You can choose the procedure for cosmetic or functional reasons. Some people want crown lengthening to fix their "gummy" smile, where their teeth are too hidden by their gums. Others need crown lengthening to save a tooth too short for a crown or a bridge or to fill a hidden cavity.

 

What to Expect

A periodontist, a gum health expert, usually performs crown lengthening. You can have it done on one or more teeth, depending on your needs and wants. Your periodontist will X-ray your teeth and gums before the surgery to plan the best course of action. You will also talk about your desired results and what anesthesia you prefer. You can have local sedation or general anesthesia for crown lengthening.

The surgery involves cutting your gums to expose your roots and bones. If needed, your periodontist will remove extra gum tissue and bone to make more room for your tooth or crown. They will then stitch your gums and cover them with a bandage.

 

Benefits of Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening has many benefits for your smile and oral health.

Some of them are:

• It improves your appearance. Crown lengthening can make your smile more attractive by making your teeth look longer and more balanced with your gums. It can also enhance the shape and contour of your teeth and gums.

• It saves your tooth. If you have a broken or decayed tooth and need a solution, crown lengthening can help. It removes extra gum tissue around the tooth, making it easier to fit a crown to save your tooth.

• It prevents infection. If you have a cavity buried under the gums, crown lengthening can expose it and allow your dentist to fill it. This can prevent bacteria from spreading and causing infection or an abscess.

• It boosts your confidence. Crown lengthening can make you feel more confident about your smile and yourself. You can smile more freely and comfortably without worrying about the appearance of your teeth.

Recovery

Crown lengthening is an effective and safe procedure that requires recovery time. After the surgery, you may experience some pain, swelling, bleeding, or sensitivity. Your periodontist will prescribe painkillers and mouthwash to help you heal faster and prevent infections.

You should also follow these tips for a smooth recovery:
 

• Eat soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for a few days.

• Stay hydrated, but avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks.

• Do not smoke or use tobacco products.

• Brush your teeth gently, but avoid the surgical area.

• Use an ice pack or a cold compress to reduce swelling.

• Follow up with your periodontist as scheduled.

Conclusion

Crown lengthening can transform your smile and your life in many ways. If you are interested in this procedure, talk to your dentist or periodontist today and find out if you are a good candidate.

For more dental care tips, visit Perio Atlanta at our Atlanta, Georgia, office. Call (404) 352-3123 to schedule an appointment today.