Crown Lengthening: Enhancing Your Smile and Oral Health
At Aerni Dental, Dr. William Aerni offers expert crown lengthening procedures to address both cosmetic and functional concerns. Whether you’re looking to improve the appearance of your smile or prepare for a restorative treatment, crown lengthening provides a precise and effective solution. Here’s what you need to know about this versatile dental procedure.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that reshapes the gum tissue and sometimes the underlying bone to expose more of a tooth’s surface. This treatment is commonly used for:
- Cosmetic Reasons: To correct a “gummy smile” and create a balanced, aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Restorative Needs: To prepare a tooth for a crown, filling, or other dental restoration when there isn’t enough exposed tooth structure to support the treatment.
- Decay or Damage Below the Gumline: To access and treat decay or fractures that extend beneath the gumline.
Who Is a Candidate for Crown Lengthening?
You may benefit from crown lengthening if you:
- Are unhappy with the appearance of a gummy smile.
- Need more tooth structure exposed for a restoration like a crown or bridge.
- Have decay or damage near the gumline that requires treatment.
- Experience difficulty with oral hygiene due to excessive gum tissue.
Dr. Aerni will assess your oral health and goals during a consultation to determine if crown lengthening is the right procedure for you.
Preview (opens in a new tab)What Happens During a Crown Lengthening Procedure?
The crown lengthening process is carefully planned and performed to ensure optimal results. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Consultation and Planning
Dr. Aerni will evaluate your oral health, discuss your concerns, and take digital images or X-rays to plan the procedure. He will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.
2. Administering Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort, local anesthesia will be applied to numb the treatment area.
3. Reshaping the Gum and Bone Tissue
Dr. Aerni will gently reshape the gum tissue and, if necessary, remove a small amount of bone to expose the desired amount of tooth structure. Advanced tools and techniques are used to minimize discomfort and ensure precision.
4. Final Adjustments
Once the desired results are achieved, the area is cleaned, and sutures are placed to promote healing.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening offers a variety of benefits, including:
- Improved Aesthetics: Creates a more balanced and symmetrical smile.
- Enhanced Oral Health: Reduces the risk of gum disease by making teeth easier to clean.
- Restorative Support: Ensures there is enough tooth structure for durable restorations.
- Treatment Versatility: Addresses both cosmetic and functional dental concerns.
Aftercare for Crown Lengthening
Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery and long-lasting results. Follow these tips:
- Follow Dr. Aerni’s Instructions: Use prescribed medications or rinses as directed to prevent infection.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Gently brush and floss the treated area to keep it clean without irritating the gums.
- Stick to Soft Foods: Avoid hard or crunchy foods during the initial healing period.
- Schedule Follow-Up Visits: Attend all recommended check-ups to monitor your healing progress.
- Manage Discomfort: Use over-the-counter pain relievers or cold compresses as needed.
Schedule Your Crown Lengthening Consultation Today
If you’re considering crown lengthening for cosmetic or restorative reasons, Dr. William Aerni at Aerni Dental can help. Call us at 440-238-6141 to schedule your consultation. Let us help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile!