Crown Lengthening
Prescott Valley, AZ
Dental Crown Lengthening provided by Our Expert Dentists in Prescott Valley, AZ at Bradshaw Family Dental
 If you're thinking about having dental work done to improve the look of your smile, you should consider crown lengthening. This procedure can enhance the balance and harmony of your smile, contributing to overall oral health and confidence. It can also serve as a primer for other dental procedures you may need.
What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure designed to expose more of the tooth structure by reshaping the gums and, in some cases, the underlying bone. This cosmetic and functional treatment is often performed for aesthetic reasons, addressing issues like a gummy smile, or to facilitate other dental procedures, such as the placement of crowns or veneers.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is often sought for its aesthetic benefits. It can create a more proportionate balance between the teeth and gums, reducing the appearance of a gummy smile and revealing more of the natural tooth structure.
Crown lengthening can also improve oral health by making it easier to clean and maintain the exposed tooth surfaces. Access to the previously concealed areas allows for more effective oral hygiene practices, reducing the risk of periodontal issues.
In cases where restorative or cosmetic dental work is needed, crown lengthening provides the necessary space for procedures like the placement of crowns, bridges, or veneers. This ensures that dental restorations fit seamlessly and contribute to a functional and aesthetically pleasing smile.
We also recommend crown lengthening to address functional issues, such as a tooth that is fractured below the gumline or insufficient tooth structure for restorative procedures. By exposing more of the tooth, Dr. David Frausto can effectively address these concerns.
Common Reasons for Crown Lengthening
People usually seek crown lengthening to improve the appearance of their teeth. This procedure is also undertaken if the patient requires additional dental work.
In instances where there's excess of gum tissue harbors bacteria and contributes to periodontal disease, crown lengthening is used to improve access for thorough cleaning and reduce the risk of gum-related issues.
The Crown Lengthening Procedure
Before the procedure, we will conduct a comprehensive examination, which may include X-rays and digital imaging, to assess the extent of crown lengthening needed and determine your treatment needs. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected area and ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Next, we will make small incisions in the gum tissue to expose the underlying tooth and bone. In some cases, we may need to remove a small amount of bone to achieve the desired result. He will then carefully shape the gum tissue to create a more aesthetically pleasing and balanced appearance. We will then close the incisions with sutures, which promotes proper healing of the reshaped gum tissue. Finally, we will provide you with postoperative care instructions.
Aftercare and Recovery for Crown Lengthening
Following the crown lengthening procedure, proper aftercare is essential for a successful recovery. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial during the recovery period. Gentle brushing and flossing help keep the treated area clean and reduce the risk of infection. We recommend soft and mild foods immediately after the procedure to minimize stress on the treated area. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods.
Patients are advised to avoid tobacco use and alcohol-containing mouthwashes during the initial healing phase, as these can irritate the treated area and impede the healing process. We will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the healing progress, remove sutures if necessary, and address any concerns or questions you may have. You can manage any discomfort you experience with over-the-counter pain medication.
Common FAQs about Crown Lengthening
Is crown lengthening a painful procedure?
Crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure that patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. The goal is to create a comfortable and pain-free environment for the patient. While some postoperative discomfort is normal, it is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does it take to recover from crown lengthening?
The recovery time for crown lengthening varies from patient to patient, but most individuals can expect to resume normal activities within a few days. It is essential to follow the postoperative care instructions we provide, which may include dietary restrictions, oral hygiene practices, and attending follow-up appointments. Full recovery, including complete healing of the reshaped gum tissue, typically takes a few weeks.
Are there any risks or complications associated with crown lengthening?
While crown lengthening is generally a safe procedure, like any dental intervention, there are potential risks and complications. These can include infection, excessive bleeding, or temporary sensitivity. However, these issues are rare and we strive to minimize them with proper preoperative evaluation, professional expertise, and diligent postoperative care. Patients are encouraged to communicate any concerns with us to ensure prompt and appropriate management should complications arise.
Can crown lengthening be done on any tooth?
We can perform crown lengthening on any tooth, depending on our patients' specific needs. It is commonly done for aesthetic reasons, addressing concerns such as a gummy smile or to prepare a tooth for restorative work, such as the placement of crowns or veneers. The decision to undergo crown lengthening is based on a thorough examination by the dentist, who will assess the tooth's condition and the patient's overall oral health.
Can crown lengthening improve the appearance of my smile?
Yes, crown lengthening can significantly improve the appearance of one's smile. For individuals with a gummy smile, where an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible, crown lengthening can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile by exposing more of the natural tooth structure. Additionally, it is a valuable preparatory step for cosmetic dental procedures, ensuring that restorations like crowns or veneers fit seamlessly and contribute to an enhanced overall appearance.
Enhance Your Dental Health with Crown Lengthening in Prescott Valley, AZ
Bradshaw Family Dental is here to help you with your dental needs. Our team is skilled at crafting individualized treatment plans for each unique patient. If you're unsure which procedure is best for you, reach out and schedule a consultation at (928) 277-0076. |
To Our Valued Patients at Surprise Smiles, 
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