Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that exposes more of the tooth by removing gum tissue and bone. It is done to create a longer clinical crown, which is the part of the tooth that is visible above the gum line. Crown lengthening is often done to prepare a tooth for a crown or other dental restoration. It can also be done to improve the appearance of a gummy smile.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, and it takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue and then remove some of the tissue and bone. The gum tissue will then be sutured back in place.
Crown lengthening is a relatively safe procedure, but there are some risks associated with it, such as infection, bleeding, and pain. The recovery time is usually about 1-2 weeks.
Here are some of the reasons why crown lengthening might be recommended:
- To create more space for a crown or other dental restoration.
- To improve the appearance of a gummy smile.
- To treat gum recession.
- To expose more of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or a fracture.
