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Crown Lengthening

Why Would I Need Crown Lengthening?

Many people receive a dental crown to repair and protect a damaged tooth. In order to receive a dental crown, enough of the tooth’s surface must be visible in order to attach it. In these cases, a crown lengthening procedure is recommended. Some people lack sufficient tooth for a crown due to various reasons, such as:

  • The tooth has broken off at the gumline
  • The tooth is not strong enough to support restoration
  • A previous crown or filling has fallen off and decay is present
  • The gums extends too far along the tooth

Some patients choose to undergo crown lengthening for cosmetic purposes. Those who have a gummy smile are born with more gum tissue than others. Crown lengthening can expose more of the teeth to create a better ratio between the teeth and gums, and to help you feel more confident about your smile.

Dental Crown Lengthening Procedure

How to Prepare

Prior to surgery, Dr. Hayden Fuller will examine your teeth and take 3D scans to create your treatment plan. Some patients are asked to undergo a dental cleaning prior to a crown lengthening procedure to decrease the risk of infection. If you are undergoing crown lengthening to receive a tooth crown, we may place a temporary crown over the tooth prior to surgery. This protects the tooth and helps Dr. Fuller see how the final crown will fit after the surgery.

This procedure is typically performed using local anesthesia. However, Oral Surgery Specialists of Oklahoma offers many anesthesia and sedation methods to choose from for your comfort.

What to Expect During Surgery

To begin the procedure, Dr. Fuller will create a gingival flap by making an incision in the gum tissue and folding it back. This is one of several techniques used during crown lengthening surgery. She will remove a small amount of bone along the ridge and/or gum tissue as necessary to achieve the desired results. Then, the gums are sutured back into place. The duration of this procedure will vary depending on how many teeth need treatment.

After Surgery

The results from crown lengthening are visible immediately. Total recovery time will take a few weeks, and you should avoid strenuous activity for 3–4 days. We may prescribe pain relievers and a special mouth rinse to keep the surgical areas clean. Whether you are undergoing crown lengthening for restorative or cosmetic purposes, it is crucial to maintain good oral care before and after treatment to optimize your results.

Where To Go for Crown Lengthening in Oklahoma City, OK

If you have a gummy smile and wish to change it, or if a dentist has referred you to a specialist for crown lengthening, contact Oral Surgery Specialists of Oklahoma today to schedule your visit with our expert periodontist, Dr. Fuller. We will create a custom treatment plan for your needs to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile you can feel proud of.

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Questions? We Are Here to Help

Our staff is here to answer your questions and guide you throughout your journey with our practice. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns regarding your treatment.