Crown lengthening is a surgical cosmetic dentistry Burlingame procedure that involves reshaping the gum tissue and bone around a tooth to expose more of the tooth’s surface. While it is often performed for cosmetic reasons, such as to improve the appearance of a “gummy smile,” crown lengthening also has a significant impact on oral health and hygiene.
What is crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a surgical dental procedure that involves reshaping the gum tissue and bone around a tooth to expose more of the tooth’s surface. The procedure typically involves removing excess gum tissue and, in some cases, recontouring the underlying bone to create a more balanced and harmonious smile. By lengthening the crown, the procedure can help to correct a “gummy smile” where the gum tissue appears too prominent or to prepare a tooth for restorative dental work such as a crown or bridge. Crown lengthening can be performed on one or multiple teeth and is usually done under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The result is a more aesthetically pleasing smile with improved access to cleaning and a reduced risk of decay and gum disease.
What is the impact of crown lengthening on oral health and hygiene?
Crown length can have a positive impact on oral health and hygiene in the following ways:
Improved Access to Cleaning
- One of the primary benefits of crown lengthening is that it provides improved access for cleaning. When the gum tissue is too close to the tooth, it can be difficult to properly clean the area, leading to plaque buildup and increased risk of decay and gum disease.
- By lengthening the crown, the gum tissue is repositioned, allowing for better access to the tooth surface, and making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
Reduced Risk of Decay and Gum Disease
- By providing improved access for cleaning, crown lengthening reduces the risk of decay and gum disease. When plaque and bacteria are allowed to accumulate, they can cause damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues, leading to cavities, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
- By making it easier to clean the area, crown lengthening helps to prevent these problems.
Enhanced Aesthetics
- Crown lengthening also has a significant impact on the aesthetics of the smile. By exposing more of the tooth’s surface, the procedure can help to create a more balanced and harmonious smile.
- This can be especially beneficial for individuals who are self-conscious about their smile due to excessive gum tissue.
Improved Bite and Chewing Function
- In addition to its aesthetic benefits, crown lengthening can also improve bite and chewing function. When the gum tissue is too close to the tooth, it can interfere with the proper alignment of the teeth, leading to difficulties with biting and chewing.
- By repositioning the gum tissue, crown lengthening can help to improve the overall function of the teeth and jaws.
Reduced Risk of Tooth Sensitivity
- Crown lengthening can also help to reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity. When the gum tissue is too close to the tooth, it can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to sensitivity.
- By moving the gum tissue away from the tooth, crown lengthening can help to reduce this sensitivity.
Bottom line
In conclusion, crown lengthening has a significant impact on oral health and hygiene. By providing improved access to cleaning, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease, enhancing aesthetics, improving bite and chewing function, and reducing the risk of tooth sensitivity, crown lengthening is a valuable procedure for individuals seeking to improve their oral health. If you are considering crown lengthening, be sure to consult with a qualified dentist or periodontist to determine if the procedure is right for you.
