Crown Lengthening in Glendora, CA
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a specialized dental procedure designed to reshape the gum line and expose more of the tooth's surface, or in some cases, the bone around the teeth. This surgical procedure is not only a solution for cosmetic concerns but also plays a vital role in restorative dentistry. At Foothill Family Dental Group, our experienced cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA, Dr. Lee, use crown lengthening to enhance the appearance and function of their patients' smiles. Whether you're looking to improve the aesthetics of a "gummy" smile or preparing for a restorative procedure such as a crown or bridge, crown lengthening can provide a solid foundation for your dental health and aesthetic goals.
Crown lengthening serves multiple purposes, addressing both cosmetic and dental health issues.
- It is an effective treatment for patients who feel self-conscious about a "gummy" smile, where more gum than tooth is visible when smiling. This procedure can balance the proportions of gum to tooth, enhancing the overall appearance of the smile.
- Crown lengthening is often necessary when a tooth needs a restorative treatment but lacks sufficient exposed surface to support a crown or filling. By adjusting the gum and bone level, Dr. Lee can expose more of the tooth, ensuring that restorative appliances have a secure fit.
- This procedure can also be used to treat gum disease by removing excess gum tissue, providing easier access for cleaning and maintenance.
Undergoing crown lengthening in Glendora, CA, offers several benefits beyond just reducing the appearance of a gummy smile.
- This procedure can enhance oral health by making it easier to clean the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.
- For those undergoing restorative treatments, crown lengthening ensures that crowns, bridges, and fillings have a stable base, improving their longevity and effectiveness.
- By correcting a "gummy" smile, patients often experience a boost in self-confidence and satisfaction with their appearance.
What can I expect during the procedure?
The process of crown lengthening typically involves a detailed consultation with Dr. Lee, where he will discuss your goals, examine your oral health, and plan the procedure.
The surgery itself is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort, and the duration depends on the number of teeth being treated and whether both bone and gum tissue need adjustment.
During the procedure, excess gum and bone tissue are carefully reshaped to expose more of the tooth's surface. After treatment, you'll receive detailed care instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable healing process. While some swelling and discomfort are normal in the days following the procedure, these symptoms are generally manageable with prescribed pain medication and proper oral hygiene practices.
Is gum contouring painful?
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the surgery. Post-operative discomfort is normal but usually mild and can be effectively managed with medication prescribed by Dr. Lee.
How long does the recovery process take?
Recovery times can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and individual healing rates. However, most patients can resume their normal activities within a week, with complete healing taking a few weeks to a few months.
Will crown lengthening affect my tooth's sensitivity?
Some patients may experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures following the procedure, as more of the tooth's surface is exposed. This sensitivity typically diminishes over time and can be managed with special toothpaste and care practices.
How long will the result last?
The results of crown lengthening are considered permanent. The gum tissue is reshaped and removed to expose more of the tooth's surface, and without the gum tissue regrowing to its previous level, the results should last a lifetime.
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
Call (626) 963-3322 and schedule a consultation at our Glendora dental office.