Have you ever been told you need a crown but your tooth is too short? If so, you may be a candidate for crown lengthening. This procedure can be a great option for restoring damaged teeth and improving your oral health. But is it always necessary?
What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that reshapes the gum tissue and bone surrounding a tooth to expose more of the tooth's surface. This creates the necessary space to place a crown or other restoration.
Why is Crown Lengthening Performed?
There are several reasons why your dentist might recommend crown lengthening:
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To create space for a crown: If a tooth is too short, there may not be enough room to place a crown securely. Crown lengthening can expose more of the tooth's surface, providing a strong foundation for the crown.
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To improve the aesthetics of your smile: Crown lengthening can be used to correct a "gummy smile," where the gums cover too much of the teeth. This can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.
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To treat periodontal disease: In some cases, periodontal disease can cause the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. Crown lengthening can help to cover the exposed roots and protect them from further damage.
Is Crown Lengthening Always Necessary?
Not everyone who needs a crown will require crown lengthening. Your dentist will carefully evaluate your individual case to determine if the procedure is necessary.
Here are some factors that your dentist will consider:
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The amount of tooth structure remaining: If there is enough healthy tooth structure remaining, a crown may be placed without the need for crown lengthening.
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The location of the tooth: Crown lengthening is more commonly performed on front teeth than on back teeth.
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Your overall oral health: If you have healthy gums and good oral hygiene, you are less likely to need crown lengthening.
What are the Benefits of Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening offers several benefits, including:
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Improved oral health: Crown lengthening can help to prevent further gum recession and bone loss.
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Enhanced aesthetics: Crown lengthening can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.
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Better function: Crown lengthening can improve the function of your teeth, making it easier to chew and speak.
What are the Risks of Crown Lengthening?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with crown lengthening. These risks include:
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Infection: This is a rare complication, but it is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully to minimize the risk.
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Gum recession: In some cases, the gums may recede after crown lengthening. This can be minimized by following good oral hygiene practices.
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Sensitivity: The exposed tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures after the procedure. This usually resolves within a few weeks.
Conclusion
Crown lengthening can be a valuable tool for restoring damaged teeth and improving your oral health. However, it is not always necessary. Your dentist will carefully evaluate your individual case to determine if the procedure is right for you. If you have any questions or concerns about crown lengthening, be sure to discuss them with your dentist.
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Have you ever been told you need a crown but your tooth is too short? If so, you may be a candidate for crown lengthening. This procedure can be a great option for restoring damaged teeth and improving your oral health. But is it always necessary?