Crown lengthening, also known as gum re-contouring or gingival contouring, is a dental surgical procedure designed to expose more of the natural tooth structure by reshaping the gum line. This procedure can be performed for both functional and cosmetic reasons, and it is typically done by a periodontist or a dentist with expertise in periodontal surgery.
Here are the main reasons why crown lengthening or gum recontouring might be recommended:
Functional Reasons:
- Restorative Dentistry: Sometimes, a tooth may be decayed, broken, or fractured below the gum line, making it difficult to place a dental crown or restoration properly. Crown lengthening allows the dentist to remove excess gum tissue, exposing more of the tooth and providing a suitable foundation for the restoration.
- Biological Width: Every tooth has a specific “biological width,” the space needed to maintain healthy gum and bone tissues around it. If there is not enough biological width available for a dental restoration, crown lengthening can create the necessary space without compromising the health of the surrounding tissues.
Cosmetic Reasons:
- Gummy Smile: Some individuals have a “gummy smile,” where a significant portion of their teeth is concealed by excess gum tissue. Crown lengthening can be used to reshape the gumline and expose more of the teeth, improving the aesthetic balance of the smile.
- Uneven Gum Line: An uneven gum line can make the teeth appear irregular or misaligned. Gum recontouring can create a more harmonious and balanced appearance by reshaping the gum line.
The crown lengthening procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Evaluation: The dentist or periodontist assesses the patient’s oral health, the specific issue, and the desired outcome to determine if crown lengthening is appropriate.
- Local Anesthesia: Before the procedure, the area to be treated is numbed using a local anaesthetic to ensure the patient’s comfort.
- Tissue Removal: Using specialised surgical instruments, the excess gum tissue is carefully removed, and if necessary, a small amount of bone may also be recontoured to achieve the desired result.
- Sutures: After the tissue is reshaped, sutures (stitches) are placed to secure the gum tissue in its new position.
- Recovery: Patients can expect discomfort and swelling after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medication and following post-operative care instructions. The gums usually heal within a few weeks, and the final results become more apparent as the healing progresses.
Crown lengthening is a versatile procedure that can enhance the smile’s function and aesthetics. Whether performed for restorative or cosmetic reasons, it should always be conducted by a qualified dental professional with expertise in periodontal surgery to ensure the best outcomes and minimise potential risks.