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Crown Lengthening

El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists -  - Periodontist

El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists

Periodontists & Dental Implant Specialists located in El Paso, TX

Crown lengthening is a versatile treatment that can improve a gummy smile or prepare a tooth for a dental crown. At El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists in El Paso, Texas, Vahid Khoshkam, DDS, and Naser Rezaei, DDS, MS, offer crown lengthening as one of many treatments to improve the look and health of your smile. When you’re ready to learn more, call the office to set up a consultation. Online scheduling is also available and takes just moments to complete.

Crown Lengthening Q & A

What is crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is an oral surgery procedure that removes a portion of your gum tissue to alter the contouring of your gum line. It is performed to expose more of your tooth tissue, either for cosmetic or treatment purposes. 

Many people have excess gum tissue that makes their teeth appear abnormally small. This can make your smile more about your gums than your teeth. Crown lengthening can correct excess gum tissue to give your smile more balance. 

If you need a dental crown, there must be enough natural tooth tissue to secure it in place. Excess gum tissue can prevent proper adhesion, and should be removed prior to your crown installation. 

Regardless of whether your crown lengthening is done for aesthetic or treatment purposes, the procedure is the same. 

What happens during crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a form of oral surgery performed on an outpatient basis. That means you’ll go home the same day as your procedure. Prior to your appointment, you may need X-rays or other imaging to learn more about your bone and tooth structures. 

Local anesthesia ensures you’ll remain comfortable throughout the process. A sedative can help you relax during your visit and reduce dental anxiety. 

Your practitioner cuts the excess gum tissue from your teeth, which exposes the root of the tooth and the underlying bone. Some gum contouring procedures are performed using dental lasers. If any bone tissue needs to be removed, that step occurs next. Your gums are carefully reshaped to create the optimal gum line. 

The area is flushed with a saline solution before your practitioner stitches your gum tissue back into place. 

What is the recovery process like after crown lengthening?

You’ll receive detailed instructions on how to care for your teeth and gums after your procedure. Adhering to these guidelines is a critical part of a successful recovery. 

Expect some discomfort once your local anesthetic wears off. You’ll receive a prescription for medication to address any lingering pain. A special mouth rinse will help eliminate bacteria as your gums heal. 

Fortunately, gum tissue is among the fastest healing tissues in the human body. You’ll be able to enjoy your new smile within just a few days. 

Learn more about crown lengthening during a face-to-face consultation at El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists. Online scheduling is available, or you are always welcome to call and speak with a member regarding appointment availability.