Is Crown Lengthening a Necessary Procedure?
Posted on 8/1/2024 by Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
 Many people seeking restorative dentistry procedures like crowns or bridges encounter a common hurdle: insufficient tooth structure. This can happen due to various reasons, including tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma. When the natural tooth crown is too short to support a restoration, a crown lengthening procedure may be recommended.
While crown lengthening might sound intimidating, it's a safe and effective way to prepare your teeth for proper restoration, ultimately improving your oral health and smile.
What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping the gum and bone tissue surrounding a tooth to expose more of the natural crown. This creates a longer and stronger foundation for the placement of a crown, bridge, or other restoration.
When is Crown Lengthening Necessary?
There are several situations where crown lengthening might be necessary:
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Insufficient tooth structure: When there's not enough natural tooth remaining to support a crown, lengthening the crown provides the necessary surface area for a strong and stable restoration. |
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Deep decay or fractures: In cases of extensive decay or fractures extending below the gum line, crown lengthening allows access for proper cleaning and restoration of the damaged tooth structure. |
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Gummy smile: If your gums cover a large portion of your teeth, making them appear short, crown lengthening can reshape the gum tissue to reveal a more aesthetically pleasing smile. |
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Uneven gum line: If your gum line is uneven, causing some teeth to appear shorter than others, crown lengthening can create a more balanced and symmetrical smile. |
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening offers several benefits beyond simply preparing teeth for restorations. These include:
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Improved oral hygiene: By exposing more tooth surface, crown lengthening facilitates better brushing and flossing, reducing the risk of future decay and gum disease. |
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Enhanced aesthetics: A longer and more symmetrical crown can significantly improve the appearance of your smile, boosting your confidence and self-esteem. |
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Preservation of healthy tooth structure: By removing excess gum tissue and reshaping the bone, crown lengthening helps preserve the remaining healthy tooth structure, extending the lifespan of the natural tooth. |
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Improved function: When restorations are placed on a proper foundation, they function more effectively, improving your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. |
Is Crown Lengthening Right for You?
If you are considering restorative dentistry procedures like crowns or bridges but have insufficient tooth structure, crown lengthening might be a necessary step. Consulting with a qualified oral surgeon can help determine if this procedure is right for you. They will assess your individual needs and discuss the potential benefits and risks involved.
Remember, crown lengthening is a minimally invasive procedure with a high success rate. It can significantly improve your oral health and aesthetics, paving the way for a beautiful and functional smile.
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