Crown Lengthening Procedure from a Periodontist

If you have never visited a periodontist, it probably means that you have strong, healthy gums. There are other times when this dentist may come in handy to improve your smile and oral health. A crown lengthening procedure can be necessary in some situations. If you need a crown but the tooth is too small for one, periodontists can help. You can feel good going into this procedure that it can be successful and produce the results you need.

An overview of a crown

Crowns are common devices that dentists use to improve patients’ smiles and treat various conditions. A crown covers the entire tooth and is usually made of ceramic, porcelain, or composite resin. These materials allow the crown to be the same color as a natural tooth. Crowns are also natural-looking in shape and size.

A dental crown can go on any tooth. It stabilizes teeth that have cracks and fractures. A crown will also protect a damaged tooth from suffering further issues. Crowns are a good option when there is a large cavity that a filling cannot support.

When a periodontist will do a crown lengthening procedure

Often, a crown should fit over an affected tooth without difficulty. But there are times when there will need to be a lengthening process so that it will fit properly. This is necessary when the tooth is too small and will not accommodate the crown. Also, if the patient has decay in the tooth below the gumline, this procedure could be the right option.

Preparing the patient

To do a crown lengthening treatment, the periodontist will first get the patient comfortable. Next, the patient receives a shot of a local anesthetic, numbing the area. Once the medication takes effect, the process can begin. The dentist cuts the gums and pulls them away from the teeth, exposing the roots and bone.

Finishing up the procedure

After opening up the gums, the periodontist will recontour the gums. This ensures that the teeth are the proper length for the crown. The dentist will then clean the area to prevent infection. The dentist then sews the gums back together.

After the procedure

The anesthesia will wear off a few hours after the surgery. The patient may feel some pain and soreness in the affected area for a few days. The periodontist will prescribe pain medication to soothe any discomfort the person feels. The patient should avoid hot foods for the first day after the surgery. There may also be some sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages. Within four to six weeks after the procedure, the periodontist will follow up with the patient.