Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that deals with the removal of gum tissue around a tooth, many times so that a crown can be then put on that tooth. Periodontists provide crown lengthening because the procedure involves the periodontal tissue, which is their area of expertise.
If you’re considering or in need of crown lengthening, here’s an overview of the procedure to help you better understand your treatment.
Crown Lengthening Procedures
The purpose of crown lengthening is to expose more of the crown of a tooth by removing gum tissue. The tissue is numbed using local anesthesia before it is removed. It may be performed on a single tooth or across multiple teeth depending on your needs. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for this procedure.
Reasons for Crown Lengthening
Possible reasons for crown lengthening may include:
- Cosmetic improvement. There is a genetic condition that causes some people to have excess gum tissue covering their teeth, making them look small. Crown lengthening removes the excess tissue to expose more of the teeth, giving you a more natural smile.
- Crown preparation. When a tooth has extensive damage there may not be enough tooth material left to attach a crown. Crown lengthening can expose more of the remaining tooth material so that a prosthetic crown can be placed over the tooth.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
There are many benefits of crown lengthening, such as:
- Improve your smile. Cosmetic crown lengthening can make your smile look more natural, which can improve your confidence.
- Save a tooth. Crown lengthening can make it possible to restore a tooth with a crown that would otherwise have to be extracted.
- Improve your oral health. Crown lengthening can also remove damaged gum tissue in order to improve your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crown Lengthening
Does insurance cover crown lengthening?
If crown lengthening is being done to prepare for a crown or to treat gum disease, then the procedure will most likely be covered by your dental insurance. However, if the purpose behind the procedure is cosmetic, you may be responsible for the entire cost out of pocket.
How long after crown lengthening can I get my permanent crown placed?
It is necessary for the gum tissue to adequately heal before the permanent crown can be placed. This may take anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months.
Who Performs Crown Lengthening Procedures?
Crown lengthening is most commonly performed by periodontists who specialize in the support structure for the teeth, including the gum tissue. Periodontists have the necessary tools and expertise to provide crown lengthening for any purpose.
Holzinger Periodontics & Dental Implants routinely performs crown lengthening procedures. Our doctors and dental team have extensive experience with this treatment, providing an advanced level of care that only a specialist can offer.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.