Sometimes, teeth may be covered with excess gum tissue and may give you something known as a "gummy" smile making teeth appear shorter. Crown lengthening is a procedure where your dentist will reshape your gums and remove some gum tissue in order to show more of your teeth.
There are many reasons why someone may need a crown lengthening procedure. The process of crown lengthening involves exposing more of the tooth's surface for either cosmetic or oral health concerns.
Crown lengthening is a procedure commonly performed by dentists and periodontists to improve the appearance of the upper teeth. This oral surgery involves the removal of excess gum tissue, and possibly some bone, to make the teeth appear longer. Crown lengthening may also be performed to support the installation of a dental crown, which is necessary for a cracked or damaged tooth or for teeth with untreated cavities that cannot be corrected with a filling. Additionally, dental crowns can be used to cover misshapen or discoloured teeth. Crown lengthening can also be used to sculpt the gum line to produce a more symmetrical smile. If you are looking for crown lengthening services in South London, you should consult with a qualified dental professional.
Unlike many other cosmetic dentistry treatments, crown lengthening only needs to be done once. In addition to creating a broader, more symmetrical smile, crown lengthening can provide other dental care benefits. Crown lengthening treatments can also reduce tooth decay because more of the tooth is exposed to brush and floss.
Preparing for a crown lengthening procedure takes about an hour. Before surgery, x-rays will be taken and your medical history will be reviewed with your dentist or surgeon to go over any current medications or health concerns that could affect the surgery. A thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and bone structure will need to be done before the procedure also.
To better help determine if crown lengthening is the right solution, your dentist will predetermine how much of your gums will need to be removed or contoured for the desired result.
In some cases, gum tissue can be contoured with a laser. In other cases, some bone may need to be removed for the desired results. Crown lengthening is considered to be a routine procedure, but as with any surgery, there are certain risks to consider. The most common concern is infection following any crown lengthening treatment. Your dentist may prescribe you antibiotics to prevent or treat any infections after surgery.
Bleeding is also another concern that needs to be watched and managed. Your post-operative care instructions are an essential part of reducing your risk of developing complications and helping with the healing process. After your procedure, you should follow up with your dentist if you have any concerns regarding the condition of your teeth and gums.
Your gums will most likely need several months to heal after your crown lengthening procedure fully. Most of your regular daily activities can continue right after surgery; however, you should always follow all aftercare tips or instructions from your provider for the best recovery.
Immediately After Surgery
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