There are several reasons why someone would require a crown lengthening procedure at a dentist’s office. The process involves exposing the tooth’s surface for either health or cosmetic concerns. 

If you have been recommended by your dentist to go through the crown lengthening treatment, here are some things you should know before you go for the procedure. Icon Dental Center in Everett and Seattle has shared these tips that may help you a lot.

What Exactly is Crown Lengthening Treatment?

• This is an oral surgery treatment that basically involves removing the excess gum tissue from underneath your teeth. Sometimes, the bone around the upper teeth is also removed to make the teeth appear longer.

Periodontists frequently perform this treatment on patients so you don’t have to worry about it. Even if the gum line isn’t straight, or uneven, crown lengthening can fix it and bring it to a more symmetrical position to give you an excellent smile.

• The treatment is also performed to treat many dental conditions. For example, it is necessary to perform if the dentist wants to support the installation of a new crown. A dental cap or crown may be treated if it is damaged or cracked. If left untreated, there is a risk of cavity formation.

Sometimes the process is also performed to correct a tooth so it may hold a filling properly. Additionally, crowns can also help cover discolored teeth.

What are the Advantages of Crown Lengthening

• Unlike other cosmetic procedures, crown lengthening needs to be performed only once. It provides you with a symmetrical and broader smile as well as offers many dental care benefits. The treatment can also help prevent tooth decay because more of the teeth are exposed to brushing and flossing.

How to Prepare for Your Treatment

• Before you go for the treatment, there is a preparation phase that you must strictly follow. This phase will take you about an hour an includes getting an X-Ray of your jaw. The dentist will also likely need to see your medical history to avoid any complications especially if you are on medications or have other health concerns.

A thorough examination of your gums, bone structure, and teeth will be performed before the treatment fully begins. This helps the dentist determine whether crown lengthening is right for you or not. It will also help the dentist understand how much of the gums will need to be removed to help you achieve your desired results.

What Can You Expect During Surgery?

• In some of the cases, the excess gum tissue can be removed with a laser. In other cases, the dentist may need to remove some bone to achieve the targetted results. Although the treatment is considered routine work for many dentists, this is still an oral surgery that poses some risks to the patient.

One of the most common risks is infection. However, you do not need to worry about a post-surgery infection because it can be treated with prescribed antibiotics after the surgery.

• For some patients, bleeding is also a complication that sometimes requires close attention. Just remember, the post-care instructions that you receive from the dentist is very important for you to follow if you want to minimize the risks of developing complications. 

After the procedure, book a follow-up appointment with your dentist so that you can get yourself checked if a complication arises.