Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

Crown Lengthening & Gummy Smile

Crown lengthening is a comparably simple, non-invasive dental procedure that removes excess gum tissue and occasionally bone around a tooth. This procedure exposes more of the natural tooth structure, and the treatment could be conducted for a multitude of reasons.

The crown lengthening procedure might be beneficial for several different situations. You just might have too much gum tissue covering your teeth and would prefer to have the proportions adjusted to frame your healthier smile. Or Periodontal and Implants Associates, Inc. may find it necessary to remove some of the bone as well as gum tissue, which visually lengthens the crown of the tooth so it will look more aesthetically pleasing. By conducting this treatment, it can address what is called a gummy smile, where more gums are visible than teeth.

Beginning with your first visit with Periodontal and Implants Associates, Inc., our entire dental team is devoted to building a relationship with you, acknowledging your distinctive individual needs, and striving effortlessly to provide personalized oral health care to accomplish your goals.

We focus on creating the ultimate stress-free and comfortable dental experience. Your health and comfort are our top priorities, and we will do what is necessary to help you understand your symptoms and your treatment options in a relaxed environment. Call Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at (256) 734-8588 with any questions or to make an appointment for a crown lengthening evaluation.

Are You a Candidate for Crown Lengthening?

If you are unhappy with your gummy smile, you may be a candidate for this treatment. The development of excessive gum tissue or an uneven gum line can negatively impact the perception of your smile. We will either reshape or contour your gum line to remove excess gum tissue and visually increase the length of your teeth.

It appears to be an aesthetic issue, but if you do have a gummy smile, you might have an underlying issue as well. A gummy smile might be the result of your jawbone’s initial development. If your upper jawbone appears to bulge out more than it should, it can appear to give you a gummy smile. This is not a condition that can be initially prevented, but it may result in improper alignment and then affect your long-term health.

Another cause for a gummy smile is when you have an overactive upper lip. The muscles responsible for this part of your mouth will pull your upper lip higher than normal. This does not necessarily mean you have a gummy smile, but it can give the illusion that you do. This condition can be addressed with this treatment as well.

What Is the Procedure for Crown Lengthening?

Our team at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will first examine your mouth, teeth, and gums to determine the physical extent of the gum tissue. We will use a digital or traditional form of an impression to help decide which treatment is best for you. An X-ray will be taken so we can identify any unhealthy bone or tooth roots that are not visible to the naked eye. This examination is both essential and necessary to confirm you have good oral health and have an appropriate amount of healthy jawbone and tooth roots prior to the procedure being performed. Our best results are always from a well-orchestrated plan.

The trained staff at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc., now introduces you to the laser. The laser is pinpointed specifically at the gum tissue to be removed. The laser produces no vibration or heat, resulting in both painless and amazingly easy treatment. The laser offers a second benefit, in that it will also seal all blood vessels immediately, which results in less bleeding or swelling.

During your crown lengthening treatment, we easily remove the excess gum, bone tissue and then reshape the contour of the gumline to expose more of your natural teeth. This procedure can be done in a matter of minutes.

The Crown Lengthening Healing Process

Complete healing is expected to be finished in just a few days if the treated gum area is minimal. If there is more extensive treatment necessary, the healing will be slightly extended. It is not necessary to change your activity level or adjust your diet to speed up the healing process. You can start eating soft foods and return to work the day after your crown lengthening procedure. You will come back for a follow-up visit 4 to 6 weeks after your procedure.

During your crown lengthening recovery, your conscientious team at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will provide you with complete instructions on monitoring your gumline. When the anesthesia wears off, you may feel some discomfort, and if necessary, we may prescribe you a pain reliever, depending on the extent of the procedure and your discomfort.

Crown Lengthening Treatment Cost

As with most dental procedures, the final cost for your crown lengthening will be impacted by several factors, such as the severity of your treatment, the number of appointments necessary, whether there is anesthesia involved, and what kind of insurance coverage you currently have. We will provide a more accurate estimate following your initial evaluation.

Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. does accept many dental insurance policies, and we will submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance carrier so you will know what will be covered. If you are not covered by an insurance plan or are concerned about remaining costs, we will be happy to review other financial arrangements with you.

We Change Lives One Smile at a Time

It is our mission at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. to educate and provide every patient with the best periodontal and dental care found in Alabama. The attention to detail by our entire dental team achieves quality and successful dental results with healthy and beautiful smiles for all patients. We collaborate to realize a shared vision of excellence. We are committed to:

  • Listening to those we have the opportunity to serve.
  • Earn the trust and respect of every patient, profession, and community.
  • Exceeding your expectations.
  • Ensure a creative, challenging, and compassionate professional environment.
  • Striving for continuous improvement at all levels.

You can find Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at 315 Second St. SE, Cullman, AL, 35055. Or give us a call today at (256) 734-8588.

Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

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