Have you ever felt self-conscious about showing too much gum when you smile? If so, you're not alone. Many people are unhappy with their "gummy smile" and long for a solution that will give them the confidence to show off their pearly whites without reservation. That's where crown lengthening comes in.

The Procedure: How Crown Lengthening Works

Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that aims to correct a gummy smile and improve the overall appearance of your teeth. First, let's start with the basics. During crown lengthening, our dentists will remove excess gum tissue and reshape the bone around your teeth to expose more of their natural structure.

The procedure typically involves two main steps. First, our dentists will administer local anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable throughout the process. Then, they will carefully make small incisions in the gum tissue to access the underlying bone. Using special instruments, they will gently recontour both the gum tissue and bone to reveal more tooth surfaces. This can involve removing small amounts of tissue or even adjusting the height of the bone itself.

Once this is done, sutures are used to close up any incisions made during surgery. You may also be given temporary crowns or splints for added support while healing takes place. While crown lengthening is primarily performed for aesthetic reasons, it can also have functional benefits by exposing more tooth structures for restorative procedures such as dental crowns or bridges.

Benefits of Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is not only a cosmetic procedure but also offers several benefits for your oral health. 

• One of the main advantages is that it can help improve your gum health by reducing the risk of gum disease. Crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth surface by removing excess gum tissue, making it easier to clean and maintain good oral hygiene.
• Additionally, crown lengthening can also provide functional benefits. If you have a gummy smile or uneven gum line, this treatment can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance. It can enhance your smile by revealing more of your natural teeth and improving their proportions.
• Moreover, crown lengthening may be necessary before certain dental procedures, such as placing crowns or veneers. Exposing more of the tooth structure allows for better retention and stability when these restorations are placed.
• Furthermore, undergoing crown lengthening can boost your self-confidence by giving you a beautiful smile that you feel proud to show off. Feeling confident about your smile can positively impact various aspects of your life, including personal relationships and professional interactions.

At LAGOS Periodontics & Dental Implants, Rodrigo A. Lagos, DDS, MS, practices a full scope of periodontics with expertise in preventive periodontics, cosmetic periodontal surgery, gum grafting, and dental implants. To schedule an appointment, call us at 760-568-3421 or visit our practice at 36945 Cook St., Suite 101, Palm Desert, CA 92260.