Restorative Crown Lengthening in San Diego, CA
If you’re seeking restorative crown lengthening in San Diego, CA, Scripps Poway Dental Care is here to help. Our experienced team may recommend this surgical dental procedure if it is deemed beneficial for your dental needs. Restorative crown lengthening involves the removal of gum tissue and bone surrounding a tooth to expose more of its surface. The objective is to prepare the tooth for restorative treatments like crowns or fillings. This procedure is also called “gingivectomy” or “crown exposure.”
The primary goal of restorative crown lengthening is to increase the amount of tooth structure above the gum line. It enables the dentist to accurately place a restoration that fits well and promotes a healthy gum line. In certain cases, a tooth may have decay or damage below the gum line, requiring the exposure of more tooth surfaces before placing a restoration. Additionally, crown lengthening can enhance the aesthetics of a “gummy” smile, where excessive gum tissue covers the teeth.
The procedure typically involves using a scalpel or laser to remove gum tissue and reshape the bone. At Scripps Poway Dental Care, our dentists may refine the bone shape to create a natural appearance of a natural gum line. After removal, the dentist will thoroughly clean and suture the area to facilitate proper healing. Patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling afterward, which you can control with prescribed pain remedies and ice packs. It is essential to diligently follow the post-operative instructions supplied by the dentist to ensure a successful healing process.
If you are searching for restorative crown lengthening in San Diego, CA, or want to learn more about this procedure, contact Scripps Poway Dental Care today. Our expert team provides quality dental care and helps you achieve optimal oral health.
FAQS
Restorative crown lengthening is a procedure that reshapes the gum and sometimes the underlying bone to expose more of a tooth’s structure. This is often needed when a tooth is too short, broken below the gumline, or doesn’t have enough structure to support a crown or filling.
Your dentist may recommend crown lengthening if a tooth cannot be restored properly due to deep decay, fractures, or excess gum tissue. Creating more exposed tooth structure ensures a stronger, longer-lasting restoration.
After numbing the area, the dentist gently adjusts the gum tissue and may reshape a small amount of bone around the tooth. This gives the dentist enough room to place a secure crown or restoration. The gums are then sutured and rested to heal.
You’ll be comfortable during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Some tenderness, swelling, or mild discomfort afterward is normal and can be managed with recommended pain relievers. Most patients recover quickly.
Initial healing usually occurs within one to two weeks. However, the gums may take a bit longer to fully settle into their new position. Your dentist will let you know when the area is ready for the final crown or restoration.
As with any dental surgery, risks are minimal but may include temporary sensitivity or changes in how the tooth looks. Your dentist will explain everything beforehand and ensure the procedure is appropriate for your situation.
Follow all aftercare instructions, including gentle brushing, avoiding hard foods, and using recommended rinses. Keeping follow-up visits is important so your dentist at Scripps Poway Dental Care can monitor healing and move forward with your final restoration.
