crown lengthening

Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that involves the removal of gum tissue, and sometimes bone, to expose more of a tooth's surface. This is typically done for one of the following reasons:

  • Restorative Needs: When a tooth is damaged or decayed below the gum line, crown lengthening provides more tooth structure for a crown or filling to attach securely.

  • Aesthetic Purposes: It can be performed to correct a "gummy smile," where excessive gum tissue covers the teeth, making them appear shorter.

  • Improving Oral Health: In some cases, crown lengthening is done to reduce gum pockets, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent periodontal disease.


Treatment of "Gummy Smile"

For individuals with a "gummy smile," where the gums cover a significant portion of the teeth, crown lengthening can reveal more of the natural tooth, leading to a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Preparation for Dental Implants

In some cases, crown lengthening is performed to create enough space for a dental implant, ensuring a better fit and outcome.

  • Crown lengthening is completed under local anaesthesia. Some pain and discomfort are common after gum contouring, particularly as the anaesthesia wears off. This is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

    Discomfort typically lasts for a few days, but your gums may remain tender for a week or more as they heal.

  • Crown lengthening, like any surgical procedure, carries some risks. While it's generally safe and effective, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of:

    Infection

    Bleeding

    Post-operative pain and swelling

    Tooth sensitivity

    Altered gum line

    Root exposure

    Possible need for further treatment

  • The healing time after gum contouring can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the individual’s overall oral health. However, most people can expect to heal within a few days to a few weeks. Here’s a general timeline:

    Initial Healing (First Few Days)

    Swelling and Discomfort: During the first few days after the procedure, you may experience some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding. These symptoms typically subside within 3 to 5 days.

    Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help manage discomfort during this period. Cold compresses may also reduce swelling.

    Gum Recovery (1 to 2 Weeks)

    Tissue Healing: The gum tissue will start to heal more significantly within the first week. By the end of the second week, most of the initial tenderness and swelling should have resolved.

    Sensitivity: You may experience some sensitivity to hot or cold foods during this period, which usually improves as the gums continue to heal.

    Full Recovery (3 to 4 Weeks)

    Complete Healing: Full healing typically takes about 3 to 4 weeks. By this time, your gums should have fully recovered, and any discomfort or sensitivity should have resolved.

    Final Results: The final results of the gum contouring will be more apparent as the gums settle into their new shape. The gum line should look more even and aesthetically pleasing.

  • Extent of Procedure: More extensive contouring may require a longer healing period.

    Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection and promote faster healing.

    Smoking: Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications, so it’s advisable to avoid smoking during the recovery period.

    Overall Health: Your general health, including conditions like diabetes, can impact how quickly you heal.Item description

  • Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet for the first few days to avoid irritating the gums.

    Avoid Hot or Spicy Foods: Hot, spicy, or acidic foods can irritate healing gums, so it’s best to avoid them during recovery.

    Gentle Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing but do so gently around the treated area to avoid disturbing the healing tissue.

    Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor healing and address any concerns.