Crown Lengthening
Crown Lengthening in Kenosha
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure involving removal or reshaping of the gum tissue, bone, or both to expose more of the tooth’s structure. This procedure is typically performed to restore a tooth broken below the gum line, has insufficient tooth structure for restoration, or improves the appearance of a “gummy” smile. Our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Felicia Mata-Stein, can perform a crown lengthening treatment on single or multiple teeth, depending on the patient’s needs.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
- Increased Tooth Structure: This makes it more accessible to restore a tooth with a crown.
- Enhanced Smile Aesthetics: Corrects a “gummy” smile or uneven gum line.
- Improved Oral Health: Ensures proper access for effective cleaning and maintenance.
- Comprehensive Periodontal Treatment: Can address issues such as gum disease or bone loss.
- Secure Dental Restorations: Achieves a more secure fit for dental restorations, reducing future complications.
- Foundation for Cosmetic Procedures: Provides a foundation for future cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers or bonding, by creating a more symmetrical and harmonious gum line.
Candidates for Crown Lengthening
In Good Health
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure, so candidates must have good overall health to ensure proper healing and avoid complications during recovery.
Have Small-Looking Teeth
If your teeth appear too short or your smile is too “gummy,” crown lengthening exposes more of your tooth’s structure to help create a balanced and attractive appearance.
Want a Healthier Mouth
Crown lengthening isn’t just about aesthetics; it can also improve oral health. By reducing gum tissue, the procedure can help in areas where deep periodontal pockets have formed, reducing the risk of gum disease.
Need Tooth Repair
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth below the gum line, crown lengthening can make it easier for your Kenosha dentist, Dr. Mata-Stein, to repair the tooth. By exposing more of the tooth, Dr. Mata-Stein will have better access to place a filling or crown.
Have Good Oral Health
Candidates for crown lengthening should have good oral health and be free from active infections like gum disease or tooth decay. Good oral health ensures that the healing process is smooth and complications are minimal.
Want to Have Dental Restoration
If you require a dental crown or another type of restoration, crown lengthening can be beneficial. Exposing more of the tooth provides a better surface to which the restoration can adhere, leading to a more durable and long-lasting result.
Crown Lengthening Procedure
1. Initial Assessment
Our cosmetic dentist conducts a thorough examination with an X-ray to assess the tooth and surrounding structures.
2. Anesthesia
Dr. Mata-Stein will administer local anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure and minimize dental anxiety.
3. Reshaping the Gum Tissue and Bone
Once the area is numb, the dentist, Dr. Mata-Stein makes incisions in the gum tissue to create a flap, providing access to the tooth’s root and the surrounding bone. Dr. Mata-Stein uses special instruments to reshape the bone and remove excess gum tissue, exposing more of the tooth.
4. Contouring and Shaping
Our dentist carefully contours the gum tissue and bone to create the ideal shape and length for the tooth in order to achieve a natural-looking result.
5. Tissue Reattachment
The gum tissue is then carefully repositioned and sutured back in place, ensuring proper healing and a tight seal around the tooth to support the new gum-to-tooth relationship.
6. Post-Operative Care
At Denthetics LLC, we provide patients with detailed instructions on how to care for the treatment area, including pain management, diet, and oral hygiene practices.
7. Follow-Up
A follow-up appointment with Dr. Mata-Stein will be necessary to remove any sutures and monitor the healing process. Complete healing typically takes several weeks.
Schedule A Consultation At Denthetics LLC
If you’re considering crown lengthening, schedule a consultation with our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Felicia S. Mata-Stein, at Denthetics LLC and learn more about how the procedure can benefit you. Contact our dental team at (262) 612-3807 to book your appointment at our Kenosha dental office. Our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Felicia Mata-Stein, treats many patients with crown lengthening from Kenosha, Pleasant Prairie, Somers, and many surrounding areas.