What Is A Crown Lengthening Procedure?

When your teeth crack, break, or misshapen, a crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits for aesthetic or structural reasons. A crown can also be used for after bridges, root canals, and dental implants, and it must firmly affix over the existing tooth.

Crown lengthening is your solution. Your dental surgeon will perform crown lengthening by recontouring your dental gum tissue (and the bone in some cases), so more of the tooth’s surface is exposed for a crown. The procedure is standard and takes less than an hour to complete.

What Happens Before A Crown Lengthening Procedure?
Your dentist will advise you to wear a temporary crown until your procedure is done. This will help you get comfortable as well as protect your tooth in the interim.

What Happens During A Crown Lengthening Procedure?
During your crown lengthening procedure, the periodontist removes your temporary crown and most likely inject you with local anesthesia or sedative. He will then remove the gum and wash the area with saltwater and suture. While suturing, your periodontist will apply a bandage on the wound for protection and let you go home. Once your home and your anesthesia start wearing off, ensure you take the painkillers prescribed by your doctor to relieve you from pain and use the specialized mouth rinse to help your gums heal quickly.

How Long Does It Take For Recovery?

It takes about three months for a complete recovery. Although you will be able to function normally once your gums have healed. Your surgeon will guide you throughout your treatment process, but in general, you should follow these guidelines:

• Take your prescription medication without fail
• Regularly use an ice pack
• Skip on eating hot foods for the first 24 hours
• Do not remove the dressing for the 7 to 14 days
• Brush very carefully
• Wear your stent or denture in-case you have one
• Try consuming soft foods
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Avoid prodding the area

What Should You Look For After The Procedure?

Nowadays, oral surgeries have become efficient and effective, and crown lengthening has become a common procedure. Ensure you visit a qualified professional, and if so, the procedure will go smoothly and increase your teeth’ health and longevity.

If you have been told that you will need to underdo a crown lengthening procedure and are not sure it is, worry not! Call Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry at 281-937-7530, and our team of expert dentists will help clear all your doubts.