Crown Lengthening
Grants Pass, ORA beautiful smile is about far more than bright, healthy teeth. Your gums play an equally important role in framing your smile and creating balance between your teeth and facial features. When gum tissue covers too much of the tooth surface or appears uneven, it can affect both the appearance and function of your smile. To help patients achieve balanced, confident results, The Center for Esthetic Dentistry offers dental crown lengthening as a trusted periodontal and cosmetic treatment option. 
Why Do I Have Uneven Gums?Uneven or excessive gum tissue can develop for many reasons. Genetics is one of the most common factors, as some people naturally have thicker or lower positioned gums. Certain medications, hormonal changes, and medical conditions can also contribute to altered gum growth. In other cases, inflammation caused by gum disease may affect the position of the gum line over time. When gums sit too low on the teeth, the teeth may appear short or square, creating what is often referred to as a gummy smile. While this is usually a cosmetic concern, excessive gum tissue can sometimes make proper oral hygiene more difficult. Bacteria and plaque may be harder to remove when too much tooth structure is covered. What Is Crown Lengthening?Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure designed to expose more of the visible portion of a tooth. This is done by gently removing and reshaping excess gum tissue and, in some cases, adjusting the supporting bone around the tooth. There are two main reasons crown lengthening may be recommended. The first is cosmetic. Patients who feel their smile shows too much gum tissue may choose this procedure to improve balance and symmetry. The second reason is restorative. If a tooth is broken, decayed, or damaged below the gum line, crown lengthening may be necessary to provide enough healthy tooth structure for a crown or other restoration. In both cases, the goal is to create healthy proportions between the teeth and gums while preserving the strength and stability of the surrounding tissues. When Is Crown Lengthening Needed?Crown lengthening may be recommended in several situations. Some patients seek treatment because they are unhappy with the appearance of their gummy smile. Others need the procedure to support dental restorations. Common reasons for crown lengthening include:
Preparing for Your Crown Lengthening ProcedureProper preparation helps ensure a smooth and successful outcome. Before treatment, your dentist will review your medical history and examine your teeth, gums, and supporting bone. X rays or digital imaging may be used to assess the underlying structures. In some cases, additional procedures may be recommended before or after crown lengthening, such as whitening or veneers, to help you reach your ideal smile. Before the procedure begins, your teeth and gums will be thoroughly cleaned through scaling and polishing. This removes plaque and bacteria, helping reduce the risk of infection. In certain situations, antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses may be recommended as a preventive measure. You will also receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for your appointment, including guidance on eating, medications, and oral hygiene. What to Expect During the ProcedureCrown lengthening is typically performed using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Once the area is numb, the dentist will carefully reshape the gum tissue. If necessary, small amounts of bone may also be adjusted to create proper spacing between the tooth and gum line. The process is precise and conservative, focusing on maintaining healthy tissue while achieving the desired result. Depending on the number of teeth involved, the procedure may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. After the reshaping is complete, the area may be protected with a dressing to support healing. You will then be given aftercare instructions before returning home. Is Crown Lengthening Painful?Many patients are concerned about discomfort, but crown lengthening is generally well tolerated. Local anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure, and most patients report only mild soreness afterward. Following treatment, it is normal to experience some tenderness, swelling, or minor bleeding for a few days. These symptoms can usually be managed with over the counter pain relievers, cold compresses, and proper oral care. Our team will provide personalized guidance to help you stay comfortable throughout your recovery. Gum Lift Aftercare and RecoveryHealing time after crown lengthening varies depending on the extent of the procedure and individual health factors. Most patients recover within a few days to a few weeks. During the initial healing period, it is recommended to:
You will be scheduled for follow up visits so we can monitor your progress and ensure proper healing. In some cases, an antimicrobial rinse or medication may be prescribed to support recovery. Maintaining Your Gums After TreatmentOnce healing is complete, your new gum line can be maintained with consistent home care and professional cleanings. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and using recommended oral care products help keep your gums healthy. Routine exams allow your dentist to monitor your gum health and address any concerns early. With proper care, the results of crown lengthening can last for many years. Does Crown Lengthening Need to Be Repeated?In most cases, crown lengthening is a permanent procedure. Once the gums and bone are reshaped and fully healed, they typically remain in their new position. However, ongoing oral health plays a key role in maintaining results. Gum disease, poor hygiene, or certain medical conditions can affect gum tissue over time. By following recommended care guidelines and attending regular dental visits, you can reduce the likelihood of needing additional treatment in the future. If changes do occur, your dentist can evaluate your situation and recommend appropriate options. Schedule Your Crown Lengthening ConsultationIf you are concerned about uneven gums, a gummy smile, or the health of a damaged tooth, crown lengthening may be the right solution. At The Center for Esthetic Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing personalized, comfortable care focused on long term results. We invite you to schedule a consultation by calling 541-476-8788 to learn more about how crown lengthening can enhance your smile and support your oral health. Together, we can create a treatment plan designed to help you feel confident every time you smile. |
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