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Crown lengthening is a dental procedure often used alongside anti-grinding treatments to address tooth wear caused by bruxism. This surgical technique involves removing excess gum and bone tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface. By increasing the visible portion of the tooth, crown lengthening provides a stable foundation for restorations like crowns or veneers, which can strengthen and protect the tooth from further damage.
In cases of bruxism, where excessive grinding has worn down the teeth or caused them to become uneven, crown lengthening restores proper tooth structure and function. This not only improves the appearance of the smile but also enhances chewing efficiency and speech clarity. Following the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort and swelling, but proper oral hygiene and post-operative care ensure optimal healing. Crown lengthening, when combined with anti-grinding treatments, offers a comprehensive approach to preserving dental health and restoring damaged Teeth.
Crown lengthening is a surgical dental procedure that involves removing gum tissue, bone, or both to expose more of a tooth’s structure. It is typically done to restore a tooth that is too short to support a filling or crown, or to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile.
During the procedure, the area is numbed with local anesthetic, and the dentist or periodontist makes small incisions to access the tooth root and surrounding bone. They then remove the necessary amount of tissue to expose more of the tooth. In some cases, they may also reshape the bone to ensure proper tooth-to-gum ratio and aesthetics.
After the procedure, the gum is stitched back into place, and the area is allowed to heal. Crown lengthening provides a stable foundation for restorations like crowns and helps improve the overall health and appearance of the teeth and gums.
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that involves removing gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of a tooth’s structure. It is commonly performed to restore a tooth that is too short to support a filling or crown, or to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile.
During the procedure, the dentist or periodontist administers local anesthesia to numb the area. They then make small incisions in the gum tissue to access the tooth’s root and surrounding bone. Excess tissue is removed to expose more of the tooth, and if necessary, the bone is reshaped to ensure proper tooth-to-gum ratio and aesthetics. The gum is then stitched back into place, and the area is allowed to heal.
Patients typically experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and any post-operative discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect some swelling and discomfort for a few days following the procedure. It’s essential to follow post-operative instructions provided by the dentist or periodontist, including proper oral hygiene practices and avoiding hard or crunchy foods that may irritate the area. Full healing usually occurs within a few weeks.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with crown lengthening, including infection, excessive bleeding, and sensitivity in the treated area. However, these complications are rare and can often be minimized with proper pre-operative evaluation and post-operative care.
Once performed, crown lengthening permanently exposes more of the tooth’s structure. However, maintaining good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups are essential for ensuring the long-term success of the procedure.
Excessive gum tissue can cause a “gummy” smile, where the gums cover too much of the teeth, making them appear short or disproportionate. Crown lengthening removes excess gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth’s surface, improving the balance between teeth and gums and enhancing the smile’s aesthetics.
An uneven gumline can detract from the smile’s aesthetics and affect the symmetry of the teeth. Crown lengthening can be performed to reshape the gumline, creating a more harmonious and balanced appearance.
