Tooth Lengthening
What is tooth lengthening?
Tooth lengthening may also be referred to as crown lengthening. It is used to remove extra gum and bone tissue and to expose more of the tooth structure from beneath the gums. There are two general reasons this procedure may be performed:
- To show more of the tooth structure above the gums before further restoring the tooth (e.x. with a filling, crown, bridge, veneer, etc.).
- For cosmetic reasons to correct a "gummy smile" (see correct gummy smile)
Why do I need it?
Tooth lengthening may be done before further restoring the tooth if:
- You have tooth decay (destruction of tooth surface)
- Your tooth is broken below gum line
- You don’t have enough tooth structure for a crown or bridge or
- The cavity is below the gum line
What to expect during the procedure
Before we can restore teeth with a filling, crown, bridge, or veneer, we need to change the tissues so that the tooth can be accessed and restored.
The procedure is usually be done under local anesthetic. Any existing dental crowns will be removed and replaced following the procedure.
One tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire gumline can eb treated in a single procedure. Even if only one tooth needs tooth lengthening, the teeth beside it may also be treated to provide more even reshaping.
The gums are peeled back. Some of the bone surrounding the teeth is removed. The bone is reshaped so that it follows the regular bone outline.
When the dentist is satisfied with the amount of tooth exposed, the area is cleaned with saline water. The gums are then stitched back into place.
After the area has healed and when the sutures are removed, more of the tooth is visible and can now be restored.
Risks
Dental crown lengthening is a relatively simple, painless procedure. Like all surgeries, there are risks. You may have bleeding or develop an infection following the surgery.
Because more of the tooth is exposed, they may initially appear very long. You may also develop sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This will go away once the tooth is restored with a crown.
Removing bone from around the tooth may cause the tooth to loosen. If the tooth is lost, it may be difficult to replace with an implant.
