Crown Lengthening in Connecticut

Crown lengthening can be used to improve the health and appearance of teeth and gums. It can correct a “gummy smile,” which is when the teeth are covered with excess gum tissue, making the teeth look small and short. It is also used to help prepare for other dental procedures like placing crowns or other dental restorations.

What is Crown Lengthening?

Contrary to what its name may indicate, crown lengthening doesn’t actually lengthen or increase the size of the tooth. Rather, it involves reshaping or recontouring the gum tissue to make teeth appear longer or allow space for a crown. More of the natural tooth is exposed by reshaping the gum line, which gives the appearance of longer teeth.

Crown lengthening is a simple and easy procedure that can be performed on just one tooth, many teeth, or the entire gum line.

What is Crown Lengthening Used For?

Crown lengthening is used for both reconstructive and cosmetic purposes. This dental procedure may be used to:

Correct a “gummy smile”: Some patients may choose to add crown lengthening as part of a complete smile makeover. If the patient’s teeth appear short or “gummy,” they may choose to reshape the entire gum line and improve the appearance of their smile. Used as a cosmetic procedure, crown lengthening can help provide a more pleasing, confidence-boosting smile.
To make room for dental prosthetics: Excess gum tissue can sometimes get in the way of the space needed to place a dental crown or other prosthetic device. If there is not enough tooth structure available to place the dental crown, the dentist may perform crown lengthening surgery to exposure more of the tooth so the dental crown fits properly.
As a treatment for periodontal disease: Periodontal disease causes serious damage to your teeth. If your teeth are cracked or broken below the gum line, the dentist may suggest crown lengthening as part of the treatment plan.

Benefits of Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening offers both functional and aesthetic benefits to patients.

Reduces the risk of bacteria and decay below the gum line
Improves the appearance and symmetry of one's smile
Helps to prepare for restorative dental procedures like crowns
The results look natural
It's a quick procedure with little downtime
Can help prevent periodontal disease

What Does the Crown Lengthening Procedure Involve?

Crown lengthening can be done at either of our dental offices in West Haven or Milford, CT. Our dentist will take precise measurements of each tooth to ensure that the proper amount of gum tissue is removed. Then, they will use a special dental tool to adjust the gum line and remove any excess or damaging gum tissue.

This surgical procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, so the patient shouldn’t feel any discomfort.

Our team of highly-skilled dental professionals works closely with all of our patients to ensure their complete satisfaction during every stage of treatment. At your first appointment, we’ll discuss everything from the procedure itself to aftercare instructions, so you know what to expect.

Contact Us for Crown Lengthening in Connecticut

Shoreline Dental Care is a leading provider of cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures like crown lengthening. Contact us today to set up your appointment!