Achieve Your Best Smile from Our Top-Rated Northridge Dentist
At Dr. Kevin Gropp’s dental practice in Northridge, CA, we’re committed to providing advanced oral surgery services, including dental crown lengthening. This procedure is a critical step in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, ensuring that patients achieve a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile. Whether you require crown lengthening for a dental restoration or to improve the appearance of your gums, we’re here to help.
To schedule an appointment with our Northridge dentist, contact our dental office today at (818) 709-8645.
What Is Dental Crown Lengthening?
Dental crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that reshapes and recontours the gum tissue and bone surrounding one or more teeth. The primary goal of this treatment is to expose more of the tooth’s surface, allowing for proper restoration, such as placing a dental crown or enhancing the appearance of the gum line.
Crown lengthening is typically performed when there’s not enough tooth structure visible above the gum line to support a restoration. It may also be used in cosmetic cases where excessive gum tissue creates a “gummy” smile. By removing a portion of the gum and bone, our dentist can reveal more of the tooth, allowing for a balanced and natural-looking smile.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
When undergoing a crown lengthening surgery, patients may experience the following benefits:
- Restoration Preparation: If your tooth is broken or you deal with tooth decay near the gum line, crown lengthening provides a more exposed tooth structure, ensuring the success of dental crowns or dental bridges.
- Improved Oral Health: By exposing more of the tooth, crown lengthening can make it easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of gum disease or further decay.
- Cosmetic Enhancements: Crown lengthening can reduce the appearance of a gummy smile, making your teeth appear more proportional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Enhanced Functionality: Proper exposure of the tooth allows for better fitting restorations, improving both function and durability.
The Dental Crown Lengthening Procedure
Consultation and Diagnosis
Before the crown lengthening procedure, our Northridge dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination, which includes dental X-rays and an evaluation of your oral health. We’ll discuss your medical history, current dental health, and the goals of the procedure. During this consultation, we’ll also explain the process, answer any questions you have, and provide pre-operative care instructions.
Preparing for the Surgery
Dental crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia, but sedation options are available for patients with dental anxiety. On the day of the procedure, we’ll ensure you’re comfortable and well-prepared.
The Surgical Process
- Incision and Gum Repositioning: Dr. Gropp will make small incisions in the gum tissue around the tooth or teeth being treated. This allows the gum tissue to be lifted and moved aside, exposing the underlying bone and tooth structure.
- Bone Reshaping: In some cases, the bone may also need to be reshaped or removed to expose more of the tooth. This is done carefully to ensure that the tooth remains stable and functional.
- Gum Reattachment: Once the desired amount of tooth is exposed, the gum tissue is carefully repositioned and sutured in place. The new gum line will be higher, exposing more of the tooth and allowing for proper restoration or cosmetic improvements.
Post-Procedure Care
After the surgery, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to care for your gums as they heal. This includes managing discomfort, maintaining oral hygiene, and avoiding certain foods. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure that the gums are healing correctly.
Healing and Recovery
The initial recovery period typically lasts about 1 to 2 weeks, during which time you may experience some swelling, discomfort, or mild bleeding. It’s essential to follow all post-operative instructions to minimize complications. Full healing of the gums may take several weeks to months, depending on the extent of the procedure and the individual’s healing process.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening procedures may be recommended if:
- You need a restorative dental procedure: If your tooth is broken, decayed, or has insufficient structure above the gum line, this procedure is sometimes necessary to prepare for a dental crown or filling.
- You have excess gum tissue: Patients with a “gummy” smile, where the gums cover too much of the teeth, can benefit from crown lengthening to create a more attractive smile.
- You experience chronic gum problems: If gum disease or poor oral hygiene has caused issues around the base of your teeth, crown lengthening may be performed to make future cleaning and maintenance easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, the surgery itself takes about 1 to 2 hours. However, if you’re having multiple teeth treated or if significant reshaping of the bone is required, the procedure may take longer.
Crown lengthening may be partially covered by dental insurance if it’s performed for restorative purposes, such as preparing the teeth and gums for a crown. However, if the procedure is done for cosmetic reasons, insurance is less likely to cover the cost.
Schedule Your Consultation Today with Dr. Gropp!
If you require dental crown lengthening or have questions about the procedure, contact Dr. Kevin Gropp’s office in Northridge, CA, today. Our team is ready to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with expert care and attention.
To get started with dental treatment, contact our dentist in Northridge today at (818) 709-8645.
