What is crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of gum tissue and, in some cases, bone to expose more of the tooth structure. This results in a longer clinical crown, the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Basically, crown lengthening is generally used to expose more tooth structure and limit the visibility of our gums when we smile.
What are the steps of the crown lengthening procedure?
Crown lengthening involves several steps. First, local anesthesia is administered to ensure a painless procedure. The gums are then opened to access the bone structure for manipulation. Excess gum and, if necessary, bone tissue is removed, and the area is carefully sutured and closed. During the healing process, a protective dressing or temporary crown may be placed. In many cases, only a small portion of the gum line needs to be removed without affecting the underlying bone tissue. This approach eliminates the need for extensive gum opening, resulting in a shorter healing period of just a few days and reduced post-operative care.
What is the purpose of crown lengthening?
The primary purpose of crown lengthening is to expose more of the tooth structure to address various dental issues such as balancing the appearance of tooth structure and gums when smiling. It may be performed to prepare the tooth for restorative procedures, such as placing a crown or veneer, or to improve the esthetics of a “gummy” smile.
How long does it take to get crown lengthening?
The duration of the crown lengthening procedure depends on the complexity and the number of teeth involved. Generally, it can be completed in a single appointment lasting around 1-2 hours. However, the healing process may take several weeks. In many cases, just a simple removal of the gum line is enough to get desired results, and this reduces the length of the treatment to less than 5 minutes per tooth and the healing period to only a few days.
Is the crown lengthening procedure painful?
Crown lengthening is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that the procedure itself is painless. However, some discomfort and mild swelling may be experienced after the procedure. The dentist will provide instructions for pain management and post-operative care. If the treatment is managed with a simpler intervention, there will generally be no post-operative discomfort.
Does crown lengthening require any special care or maintenance after the procedure?
Following crown lengthening, it is important to adhere to proper oral hygiene practices, including gentle brushing and flossing. The dentist may prescribe a mouth rinse or provide specific instructions for cleaning the treated area. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure optimal oral health.
How much does crown lengthening typically cost?
The cost of crown lengthening varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case. If the crown lengthening procedure is complex and requires access to the bone structure, it will cost around 50 euros per tooth. If a simpler intervention is sufficient, the costs reduce to around 25 euros per tooth.
