Crown Lengthening

Crown Lengthening: A Periodontal Procedure That Leads to a Beautiful Smile

At Northwest Dental Specialists in Mt. Prospect, IL, Dr. Paola Rojas is a periodontist dedicated to providing treatment that helps you get the smile you dream of. One of the specialized services we offer is crown lengthening, a procedure designed to improve your oral health, enhance the appearance of your smile, and prepare teeth for restoration. Our advanced gum and bone tissue management training ensures you’ll receive expert care tailored to your needs, whether for functional or cosmetic reasons.

What is Crown Lengthening?

This surgical procedure adjusts the position of the gum line and sometimes the underlying bone tissue to expose more of the tooth structure. This procedure may involve one or multiple teeth to achieve the desired result.

Clinical crown lengthening serves several purposes, including:

• Restoring damaged teeth: This procedure allows placing a dental crown or filling by exposing more of the tooth.
• Enhancing aesthetics: For those with a gummy smile or excess gum tissue, esthetic crown lengthening can create a more balanced, attractive smile.
• Improving oral health: Addressing soft tissue and bone loss can prevent complications like tooth decay or gum disease.

Expanding the crown length may make you eligible for more dental procedures to improve oral health.

Why Would I Need Crown Lengthening?

There are several reasons why Dr. Rojas may recommend a lengthening procedure.

The first reason is restorative needs. If a tooth is fractured or severely decayed near the gum line, more tooth structure must be exposed to properly fit a dental crown or filling. This treatment ensures restorations are securely placed without affecting the surrounding gum tissue or adjacent teeth.

Some patients choose this procedure for cosmetic reasons. Patients with a gummy smile may choose esthetic crown lengthening to reduce the appearance of excess gum tissue and reveal more of the tooth for a proportionate smile.

Finally, Dr. Rojas may recommend surgical crown lengthening to prevent further damage. Removing excess soft tissue can improve oral hygiene and reduce the risk of gum disease or tooth decay.

What is the Step-by-step Procedure for Getting Crown Lengthening?

The crown lengthening procedure is straightforward and performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Here’s what to expect:

Initial consultation

Dr. Rojas will evaluate the number of teeth requiring treatment and determine whether adjustments to gum tissue, bone tissue, or both are needed.

Tissue or bone removal

During the surgical procedure, the gum is gently reshaped, and any necessary modifications are made to the underlying bone tissue to expose the desired part of the tooth. This ensures the tooth is properly exposed for a dental restoration or aesthetic improvement.

Post-operative care

Following the procedure, the Northwest Dental Specialists team will provide detailed instructions on post-operative care to ensure proper healing of the surgical site. Depending on the extent of the procedure, sutures may be placed to help the gums heal correctly. These sutures are typically self-dissolving, but in some cases, a follow-up appointment may be needed for removal.

Dr. Rojas may also recommend over-the-counter pain medication or prescribe medication to manage discomfort and prevent infection. Following these post-operative instructions is crucial for optimal healing and the long-term success of the lengthening procedure.

Benefits of Crown Lengthening

This treatment offers numerous benefits, both aesthetically and functionally.

• Improved Smile Aesthetics: Reduce the appearance of a gummy smile by exposing more of the visible tooth.
• Enhanced Tooth Restoration: Ensure proper dental crown placement or filling placement by exposing sufficient tooth structure.
• Better Oral Health: Removing excess gum tissue can improve oral hygiene and reduce the risk of decay and gum disease.
• Long-Term Stability: Proper gum line and bone tissue adjustment creates a stable foundation for dental work and supports overall oral health.

Esthetic Periodontal Treatment to Enhance Your Smile

Dr. Rojas is uniquely qualified to perform various periodontal procedures due to her expertise in managing gum and bone tissue. Whether your goal is to restore damaged teeth or enhance the beauty of your smile, Dr. Rojas and her team prioritize your comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout the process.

If you’re considering crown lengthening, Dr. Rojas of Northwest Dental Specialists is here to help. Our office in Mt. Prospect provides personalized care and expert guidance to achieve the results you desire. Contact us at (847) 398-0404 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how periodontal procedures can transform your smile and oral health. Let us help you create a healthy, confident smile you’ll love!