Crown Lengthening in San Diego, CA
A broken tooth is painful and makes eating and drinking very difficult. Most of the time, the solution to a broken tooth is to place a crown over the top of the broken portion. However, there are times when the tooth breaks so that it is impossible to place a crown over it because not enough of the tooth is left exposed above the gum line. While you may think there’s nothing left to do but extract the tooth, you still have an option.
Crown lengthening is a procedure that can save a damaged tooth from extraction, no matter if it has broken down to the gum line. This is an excellent option when you don’t want to lose a tooth and are a suitable candidate for a dental crown.
How Does Crown Lengthening Work?
Crown lengthening is a specific procedure that is only used in certain cases. When a tooth is damaged to where there is very little of the tooth showing above the gum line, it is necessary to lengthen the crown to expose more of the tooth for a few reasons.
First, the tooth needs to be exposed to apply a crown. Second, for cleaning and sanitary purposes, Dr. Shervin must expose enough of the tooth so he can properly take care of it and check it for underlying damage. Sometimes debris, cavities, and other problems can begin below the gum line, particularly if a tooth is damaged, meaning Dr. Shervin needs to be able to access this portion of the tooth to correct the damage.
The way crown lengthening works is that a dentist uses either a dental tool or a laser to re-sculpt the gumline by removing excess tissue. Some patients have extra gum tissue, making this a necessary procedure even without a damaged tooth, but in most cases, it is done to repair a tooth that has been damaged. The laser re-sculpts the gumline while keeping a natural look so that teeth and gums appear in the proper size and shape.
FAQ's
What is the recovery like after a crown lengthening procedure?
Most patients experience moderate swelling and tenderness for a few days, and full healing of soft tissues often takes several weeks. Your dentist will provide pain management, antibiotics if needed, and guidelines for diet and oral care to support optimal healing.
Can crown lengthening improve a “gummy” smile?
Yes — when excess gum tissue makes the teeth appear short, crown lengthening recontours the gums (and occasionally bone) to expose more tooth surface. The result is a more proportionate smile. A consultation with a dentist in San Diego, CA will evaluate whether you’re a suitable candidate.
Why might I need crown lengthening before placing a crown or bridge?
If a tooth has decay or damage that extends below the gum line, there may not be enough exposed tooth structure for a restoration to attach properly. Crown lengthening exposes more healthy structure so the final crown or bridge can bond securely and function reliably. Healthline+1
Is crown lengthening a painful surgery?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort after the procedure is normal. Pain levels are generally manageable and decrease within a few days. Your dentist will guide you on what to expect.
How soon after crown lengthening can I have my final restoration placed?
Your dentist will wait until healing is sufficient, which may be a few weeks to several months depending on how much tissue and bone were adjusted. Rushing to place the restoration can undermine results, so patience helps ensure long-term success.
Will crown lengthening change how my gums look around all my teeth or just one?
It depends on your goals. If you have a gummy smile affecting several teeth, multiple adjacent teeth may be adjusted for symmetry. For a single tooth needing restoration, only that area may be treated. Your dentist will plan the procedure to match your aesthetic and functional needs.
What risks are associated with crown lengthening?
Risks include post-operative gum recession, root exposure, increased sensitivity and slight change in tooth appearance. Good hygiene and following after-care instructions reduce these risks. Your dentist in San Diego, CA will review your specific risks during the consultation.
How should I care for my mouth after crown lengthening surgery?
You’ll need gentle brushing, salt-water rinses or prescribed rinse, soft foods for a few days and avoid chewing in the treated area. Regular dental visits help ensure tissue is healing properly and that you’re ready for the next restoration phase.
Can crown lengthening affect future dental work, like implants or orthodontics?
Yes — by altering bone or gum levels, crown lengthening can impact spacing and options for future work. It’s vital to coordinate the procedure with any planned restorative or orthodontic treatment so your dentist aligns your long-term goals.
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