Crown Lengthening San Diego, La Jolla, Del Mar, Torrey Pines

Dental Crown Lengthening at San Diego Dental Implants & Periodontics

Enhancing Your Smile and Oral Health

Crown lengthening is a specialized periodontal procedure offered at San Diego Dental Implants & Periodontics to help patients achieve a healthier, more attractive smile. This restorative process involves removing excess gum or bone tissue to expose more of the tooth’s structure, providing both functional and cosmetic benefits.

Dental crown lengthening is often necessary to prepare a tooth for a crown or bridge, especially when there isn’t enough tooth structure visible above the gum line for a proper fit. It can also be performed for cosmetic reasons, such as improving the appearance of a “gummy” smile by reshaping the gum line to reveal more of your teeth. This procedure is most effective when done by a skilled periodontist who specializes in both treating gum disease and performing restorative dental procedures.

“My experience with Dr. Akef was exceptional from start to finish. From the moment I walked into the office, I was treated with care and attentive customer service”

-Olivia

When is dental crown lengthening needed?

Crown Lengthening: Why It’s Needed

There are several reasons why dental crown lengthening might be necessary:

Insufficient tooth structure: If a tooth is broken or decayed below the gum line, there may not be enough of the tooth exposed to securely attach a crown. Crown lengthening allows the dentist to expose more of the tooth, ensuring a better fit for the crown.
Gum irritation: When a crown doesn’t fit well due to insufficient tooth structure, it can cause irritation and inflammation of the gums.
Gummy smile correction: For cosmetic purposes, crown lengthening can reduce excess gum tissue to give the appearance of longer teeth, enhancing the overall look of your smile.

How the Crown Lengthening Procedure Works

Crown lengthening is a straightforward procedure that can be performed on one or multiple teeth. It’s typically done under local anesthetic, but sedation options are available for patients who feel anxious about the process. Here’s what you can expect:

Preparation: If you have any temporary crowns in place, they will be removed before the procedure begins.
Incisions: Small incisions are made around the gum tissue to gently pull the gums away from the tooth, exposing more of the tooth’s structure.
Tissue and bone removal: Depending on the extent of the procedure, your periodontist may remove small amounts of gum tissue or, in some cases, bone tissue.
Cleaning and closure: Once the desired amount of tooth is exposed, the area is cleaned with saline, and the gum tissue is sutured or covered with a special bandage to aid in healing.

Throughout the process, local anesthetic ensures that you remain comfortable, and most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After the procedure, you may experience some tenderness, swelling, or minor discomfort in the treated area. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage any discomfort and prevent infection. The recovery time is usually short, and most patients can return to their normal routine the next day. With proper care, the gum tissue will heal quickly, and the results of the crown lengthening will be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Contact San Diego Dental Implants & Periodontics

Whether you’re dealing with a tooth that’s broken or decayed near the gum line, or you’re looking to improve the appearance of a gummy smile, dental crown lengthening at San Diego Dental Implants & Periodontics can help. Contact us today to learn more about this procedure and how it can enhance both the function and appearance of your smile.

Crown Lengthening