Surgical crown lengthening is a dental procedure that can be performed for either functional or aesthetic reasons. Functional crown lengthening is done when there is not enough tooth structure available to support a dental restoration or to access a tooth that is decayed or damaged below the gum line. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma, tooth decay, or gum disease.
Functional crown lengthening may not be suitable in cases where the tooth is significantly compromised, such as severe decay, fractures below the gum line, or insufficient remaining tooth structure to support a restoration. If crown lengthening cannot adequately save the tooth, extraction may be recommended, followed by bone grafting and the placement of a dental implant to restore function and aesthetics.
Aesthetic crown lengthening, on the other hand, is performed for cosmetic reasons. This procedure is typically done to improve the appearance of the teeth and enhance the patient’s smile. Aesthetic crown lengthening is often recommended when patients have what is known as a “gummy smile,” where too much gum tissue is visible when they smile.
The procedure for both functional and aesthetic crown lengthening is similar. The dentist will make small incisions in the gums to access the tooth root and remove any excess gum tissue or bone that is covering it. The goal of functional crown lengthening is to expose enough of the tooth structure to allow for a dental restoration, while the goal of aesthetic crown lengthening is to reveal more of the tooth surface to improve the appearance of the smile.
After the surgery, patients may experience some swelling, discomfort, and sensitivity in the treated area. However, these symptoms typically subside within a few days, and patients can return to their normal activities within a week.
In conclusion, whether for functional or aesthetic reasons, surgical crown lengthening is an effective way to improve the appearance and function of the teeth. If you are considering this procedure, it is important to discuss your options with a qualified dental professional to determine whether it is the right choice for you.
