Smile Perfections Dental & Cosmetic Clinic
Many who regard themselves as having a gummy smile feel self-conscious or embarrassed when they pose for photographs or go out in public. However, modern dentistry offers a host of solutions to improve smile aesthetics.
Crown lengthening is a simple and quick procedure which decreases the amount of gum tissue located around the teeth. The treatment leads to the creation of a more balanced, attractive and confident smile.
At Smile Perfections Dental, we provide crown lengthening for many patients who feel self-conscious due to excess gum tissue. We recognise the difference a full, healthy smile can make and offer this effective treatment to ensure patients get the most out of their smiles.
The crown lengthening procedure may sound frightening, but in reality, it is actually straightforward and completely painless:
It is normal for the gums to feel slightly uncomfortable and swollen after the treatment has been completed. Please be aware that this should subside quickly and over-the-counter pain relief can be used to ease soreness.
There is a relatively quick recovery time following the procedure and it is advisable to rinse the gums with a salt-water combination for the first few days. Take care when cleaning your teeth as the gums may be prone to sensitivity for a short time.
Crown lengthening is a dental surgical procedure that involves removing gum tissue, bone, or both to expose more of a tooth’s structure. This periodontal treatment is performed by a specialist dentist or periodontist to address various dental issues.
The process often involves reshaping the gum line to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile or to prepare for other dental procedures.
In some cases, crown lengthening may require adjusting the underlying bone to ensure proper tooth exposure and support.
There are several situations where a dentist might recommend crown lengthening as a beneficial treatment option.
Crown lengthening can create sufficient tooth structure for placing a dental crown or bridge when a tooth is too short or damaged below the gum line.
The procedure can help correct a “gummy smile” by exposing more of the natural tooth, creating a more balanced and attractive smile.
In some instances, crown lengthening is necessary to access and treat dental decay.
When decay occurs below the gum line, crown lengthening allows the dentist to reach and remove the affected area effectively.
For teeth that have fractured close to or below the gum line, this procedure can expose enough healthy tooth structure for proper restoration.
Crown lengthening can also contribute to better oral health maintenance.
By exposing more of the tooth surface, the procedure can make it easier for patients to clean their teeth effectively, reducing the risk of gum disease and further decay.
Reshaping the gum line can sometimes help create a more favourable environment for maintaining healthy gums and supporting structures.
Crown lengthening is often a preparatory step for other dental treatments.
The procedure ensures there is enough tooth structure available for a dental crown to fit securely and function properly.
In some cases, crown lengthening may be necessary to achieve optimal results when placing veneers, especially if the teeth appear short or the gum line is uneven.
Crown lengthening is a versatile dental procedure that can address a range of functional and aesthetic concerns. Whether you need it to facilitate a necessary restoration, improve your smile’s appearance, or enhance your oral hygiene, crown lengthening can play a crucial role in achieving optimal dental health and aesthetics. If you think you might benefit from this procedure, consult with your dentist to discuss whether crown lengthening is appropriate for your specific dental needs.
The typical crown lengthening procedure usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour per tooth. However, the exact duration can vary depending on several factors specific to each patient’s case.
When only one tooth requires crown lengthening, the procedure may be completed in as little as 30 minutes, excluding preparation and post-operative care.
For cases involving several teeth, the crown lengthening process might extend to 60 minutes or more, depending on the complexity and number of teeth being treated.
Several elements can influence the time required for a crown lengthening procedure.
Cases requiring minimal gum tissue removal may be quicker, while those needing extensive recontouring could take longer.
If osseous surgery is needed to adjust the underlying bone, this can add to the overall duration of the crown lengthening procedure.
Before the actual procedure begins, some preparatory steps are necessary, which contribute to the overall appointment time.
Your dentist will need to administer local anaesthesia and allow time for it to take effect, typically adding about 10-15 minutes to the process.
A brief review of your case and final treatment planning may occur just before the procedure, potentially adding a few minutes to your appointment.
After the main procedure, your dentist will need to perform some final steps, which are included in the overall treatment time.
Placing sutures to aid healing can take an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the extent of the crown lengthening performed.
Your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which may add another 5-10 minutes to your appointment.
Some situations may require more time due to their complexity or the need for additional procedures.
If you have existing gum disease, your dentist may need to address this before or during the crown lengthening, potentially extending the procedure time.
In cases where crown lengthening is combined with other treatments like tooth preparation for a crown, the overall appointment duration will naturally increase.
While the actual crown lengthening procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, it’s important to allow for additional time in your schedule for preparation, post-operative care, and any potential complexities. Your dentist will provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific case during your consultation. Remember, the goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your dental health and appearance, so the time invested in this procedure is crucial for long-term success.
Crown lengthening is generally not a painful procedure due to the use of local anaesthesia. Your dentist will ensure you’re comfortable throughout the treatment.
Before the procedure begins, a local anaesthetic is carefully injected to numb the treatment area, preventing pain during the crown lengthening process.
For anxious patients, additional sedation methods may be offered to enhance comfort and reduce anxiety during the crown lengthening procedure.
While you shouldn’t feel pain, you may experience some sensations during the procedure.
You might feel pressure or slight vibrations as the dentist works on reshaping your gum tissue and potentially the underlying bone.
The sounds of dental instruments may be audible, but these should not cause discomfort during the crown lengthening process.
After the anaesthetic wears off, some discomfort is normal but manageable.
Mild pain or soreness can usually be controlled with paracetamol or ibuprofen, as recommended by your dentist following the crown lengthening.
Applying a cold pack to the outside of your cheek near the treated area can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the days following the procedure.
The healing process involves some temporary changes and sensations.
Your gums may feel tender for a few days to a week after the crown lengthening procedure, gradually improving as healing progresses.
Temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is common and should subside as your mouth heals from the crown lengthening treatment.
Several elements can affect how comfortable you feel during and after the procedure.
More extensive crown lengthening involving bone reshaping may lead to increased post-operative discomfort compared to simpler gum recontouring.
Your personal tolerance for dental procedures can influence your perception of discomfort during and after crown lengthening.
Once healed, the treated area should feel normal and comfortable.
Many patients find that maintaining oral hygiene is easier and more comfortable after crown lengthening due to the improved gum contours.
The procedure often results in better-fitting restorations, leading to improved comfort during eating and speaking.
While crown lengthening is not typically painful during the procedure itself, some discomfort during the recovery period is normal. Your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions and may prescribe appropriate pain relief if necessary. Most patients find that any discomfort is manageable and short-lived, with the benefits of the procedure far outweighing any temporary unease. If you have concerns about pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your dental professional, who can offer personalised advice and reassurance.
The immediate recovery period after a crown lengthening procedure typically lasts about 7 to 10 days. During this time, patients may experience some discomfort and swelling.
The gum tissue begins to heal within the first week, with most visible signs of the procedure diminishing rapidly.
Any post-operative pain or discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief medication and should subside within a few days.
While initial recovery is relatively quick, complete healing can take longer.
It may take up to three months for the gum tissue to fully mature and stabilise following the crown lengthening procedure.
If bone was removed during the procedure, the healing process could extend to six months as the underlying bone structure remodels.
Several elements can affect the duration and quality of the recovery process.
More extensive crown lengthening involving multiple teeth or significant bone removal may require a longer recovery period.
Overall health, age, and lifestyle factors such as smoking can impact healing time after the crown lengthening procedure.
Proper aftercare is crucial for optimal healing and can influence recovery time.
Patients are typically advised to follow a modified oral hygiene routine for the first few weeks to avoid disturbing the healing tissues.
Consuming soft foods and avoiding very hot or cold items can help protect the treated area and promote faster healing after crown lengthening.
Patients can expect to reach certain recovery milestones at different stages.
If non-dissolvable sutures were used, they are usually removed 7 to 14 days after the crown lengthening procedure.
Most patients can resume their regular daily activities within a day or two of the procedure, but should avoid strenuous exercise for about a week.
Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal results.
The first follow-up appointment typically occurs within 1-2 weeks of the crown lengthening procedure to assess initial healing.
Additional appointments may be scheduled over the following months to track progress and prepare for any planned restorative work.
While the initial recovery from crown lengthening is relatively quick, it’s important to understand that complete healing is a gradual process. Most patients find that they can return to their normal routines fairly quickly, but the full benefits of the procedure may not be apparent for several months. Your dentist will provide specific guidance tailored to your individual case, ensuring the best possible outcome from your crown lengthening procedure.
While crown lengthening is generally a safe procedure, some temporary side effects are typical and should be expected.
Mild swelling of the gums is common after the procedure and usually subsides within a few days to a week.
Patients may experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for several weeks following crown lengthening as the gums heal.
Although rare, certain complications can occur during the procedure itself.
In some cases, patients may experience more bleeding than anticipated, which may require additional measures to control.
While uncommon, some individuals may have adverse reactions to local anaesthesia used during crown lengthening.
Some risks may manifest in the days or weeks following the procedure.
There’s a small risk of infection at the surgical site, which can usually be prevented with proper oral hygiene and post-operative care.
In some cases, the gum line may recede further than anticipated, potentially affecting the aesthetic outcome of the crown lengthening procedure.
Certain factors may impact the long-term success of the procedure.
Crown lengthening may lead to increased exposure of tooth roots, potentially causing long-term sensitivity or vulnerability to decay.
Altering the gum line can affect overall periodontal health, requiring vigilant oral hygiene practices to maintain gum health post-procedure.
While often performed for cosmetic reasons, crown lengthening can sometimes lead to unexpected aesthetic outcomes.
In some cases, the procedure may result in an uneven gum line, potentially requiring additional treatments to achieve the desired appearance.
Lengthening the visible portion of teeth can alter their apparent size and shape, which may affect the overall harmony of your smile.
Several steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood of complications.
A comprehensive examination, including X-rays and periodontal probing, helps identify potential risk factors before proceeding with crown lengthening.
Choosing an experienced periodontist or oral surgeon can significantly reduce the risk of complications during and after the procedure.
While crown lengthening is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and complications. Most issues are minor and temporary, resolving with proper care and time. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks to consider. Your dentist will discuss these with you in detail, tailoring the information to your specific case and medical history. By understanding these potential complications, you can make an informed decision about whether crown lengthening is right for you and take appropriate steps to ensure the best possible outcome.
Crown lengthening can significantly affect the appearance of your smile, often in a positive way. The procedure is designed to alter the gum-to-tooth ratio, which can dramatically enhance your overall smile aesthetics.
By exposing more of the tooth structure, crown lengthening can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing gum-to-tooth ratio.
The procedure can help achieve better symmetry in your smile by evening out gum lines across multiple teeth.
One of the primary aesthetic benefits of crown lengthening is its ability to address excessive gingival display, commonly known as a ‘gummy’ smile.
By carefully removing excess gum tissue, the procedure can reveal more of your natural tooth structure, reducing the appearance of a gummy smile.
Crown lengthening can expose the cemento-enamel junction (where the crown meets the root), creating a more natural-looking gum line.
The procedure can significantly improve the apparent size and shape of your teeth, contributing to a more harmonious smile.
By revealing more of the tooth structure, crown lengthening can make short or stubby teeth appear longer and more proportionate.
The procedure can help achieve the ideal width-to-length ratio for teeth, typically considered to be about 80% width to length for central incisors.
Crown lengthening can play a crucial role in creating an aesthetically pleasing smile line that complements your facial features.
The procedure allows for precise reshaping of the gum contour, helping to create a smooth, natural-looking smile line.
By adjusting the gum line, crown lengthening can achieve better harmony between your teeth, gums, and lip line when you smile.
While generally positive, there are some aesthetic factors to consider when undergoing crown lengthening.
Care must be taken to preserve the triangular gum tissue between teeth (interdental papilla) to avoid unsightly ‘black triangles’ after the procedure.
The texture of the gum tissue may change slightly after healing, which could affect the overall appearance of your smile.
The aesthetic benefits of crown lengthening can be long-lasting, but some changes may occur over time.
Natural gum recession may occur over time, potentially altering the initial aesthetic results of the crown lengthening procedure.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to preserving the aesthetic benefits of crown lengthening and preventing issues like inflammation or recession.
Crown lengthening can have a profound impact on the appearance of your smile, often resulting in a more balanced, symmetrical, and aesthetically pleasing look. However, the extent of the change and the final outcome can vary depending on your individual case and the skill of your dental professional. It’s important to discuss your aesthetic goals thoroughly with your dentist or periodontist before undergoing the procedure. They can provide you with a realistic expectation of the results and may even use digital imaging to give you a preview of your potential new smile. Remember, while crown lengthening can significantly enhance your smile’s appearance, it should always be performed with careful consideration of both aesthetic and functional outcomes.
Crown lengthening is often combined with other dental treatments to achieve optimal results in both function and aesthetics. Its versatility makes it an excellent complementary procedure in many dental treatment plans.
In many cases, crown lengthening serves as a preparatory step for other restorative or cosmetic dental procedures, ensuring better outcomes and longevity of the final results.
Crown lengthening can be an integral part of a comprehensive smile makeover, working in tandem with other treatments to achieve a harmonious and attractive smile.
One of the most common combinations is crown lengthening with various restorative dental procedures.
Crown lengthening is often performed before placing a dental crown, especially when there isn’t enough tooth structure above the gum line to support the restoration.
When preparing teeth for a dental bridge, crown lengthening may be necessary to ensure proper fit and aesthetics of the bridge abutments.
Crown lengthening can significantly enhance the results of various cosmetic dental treatments.
Prior to fitting veneers, crown lengthening can help achieve the ideal gum line and tooth proportions for a more aesthetically pleasing result.
In cases of excessive gingival display, crown lengthening can be combined with lip repositioning or Botox treatments for comprehensive gummy smile correction.
Crown lengthening can play a crucial role in overall periodontal health and treatment.
In some cases, crown lengthening may be performed alongside pocket reduction surgery to improve overall gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
For patients with significant bone loss, crown lengthening may be combined with bone grafting procedures to restore proper tooth-to-bone ratios.
Crown lengthening can complement orthodontic treatments in certain situations.
After orthodontic treatment, crown lengthening may be used to perfect gum lines and achieve optimal tooth proportions for the newly aligned teeth.
In cases of impacted teeth, crown lengthening may be combined with orthodontic treatment to properly expose and align the affected tooth.
While combining crown lengthening with other procedures can be beneficial, there are important factors to consider.
Proper planning and sequencing of combined treatments is crucial to ensure optimal healing and results. Your dentist will create a tailored treatment plan to address this.
Combining procedures may extend overall recovery time. Your dentist will advise on the expected healing period and any necessary precautions.
Crown lengthening’s versatility makes it an excellent candidate for combination with various dental procedures. Whether you’re undergoing restorative work, cosmetic enhancements, or addressing periodontal issues, crown lengthening can often be integrated to improve overall outcomes. However, the suitability of combining treatments depends on individual factors such as oral health status, specific dental needs, and treatment goals. A thorough consultation with your dentist or periodontist is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your unique situation. They will consider all aspects of your oral health and aesthetic desires to create a comprehensive strategy that may include crown lengthening alongside other beneficial procedures.
Proper care in the first 24-48 hours after your crown lengthening procedure is crucial for optimal healing and comfort.
Some bleeding is normal after the procedure. Gently bite on a gauze pad for 20-30 minutes to help control bleeding. If it persists, contact your dentist.
Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the treated area for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for proper healing, but you’ll need to modify your routine initially.
After 24 hours, gently brush the treated area with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be extra careful around the surgical site to avoid disrupting the healing process.
Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 2-3 times a day, starting 24 hours after the procedure. This helps keep the area clean and promotes healing.
Your diet plays a crucial role in the healing process after crown lengthening surgery.
Stick to soft foods for the first few days after the procedure. Avoid hot foods and drinks, as well as spicy or acidic items that might irritate the surgical site.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but avoid using straws for the first week as the suction can disrupt the healing process.
Managing discomfort is an important aspect of post-operative care.
Take any prescribed pain medication as directed by your dentist. If you haven’t been prescribed anything, over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol can help manage discomfort.
Unless otherwise directed by your dentist, avoid aspirin-based pain relievers as they can increase bleeding.
Modifying your activities in the days following the procedure can aid in recovery.
Avoid strenuous physical activities for at least 2-3 days after the procedure to prevent increased bleeding and swelling.
When resting or sleeping, keep your head elevated with an extra pillow to help reduce swelling.
To maintain the results of your crown lengthening procedure, ongoing care is essential.
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and maintain regular dental check-ups to ensure proper healing and long-term success of the procedure.
Once healing is complete, use interdental brushes or floss daily to clean between teeth and along the gum line, paying extra attention to the treated area.
Being aware of your healing progress and any potential complications is crucial.
Some swelling, minor bleeding, and mild discomfort are normal in the first few days. These symptoms should gradually improve.
Contact your dentist immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, increased swelling after 2-3 days, or signs of infection such as fever or pus discharge.
Proper post-operative care is vital for the success of your crown lengthening procedure and your overall oral health. By following these guidelines and any specific instructions provided by your dentist, you can promote optimal healing and achieve the best possible results. Remember, everyone’s healing process is unique, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental professional if you have any concerns or questions during your recovery period.
In some cases, alternatives to crown lengthening can effectively restore damaged teeth while preserving more of the natural tooth structure.
This procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured resin material to repair minor chips, cracks, or decay. It’s less invasive than crown lengthening and can be completed in a single visit.
These custom-made restorations can repair more extensive damage than bonding, but still preserve more of the natural tooth than a full crown.
When damage is too extensive for conservative methods, prosthetic solutions can provide alternatives to crown lengthening.
These thin porcelain shells can cover the front surface of teeth, addressing both structural and aesthetic issues without the need for crown lengthening.
This option covers more of the tooth than a veneer but less than a full crown, potentially eliminating the need for crown lengthening in some cases.
In certain situations, orthodontic treatments can achieve similar results to crown lengthening.
This technique gradually moves the tooth out of the socket, exposing more of the tooth structure without surgically altering the gum line.
In some cases, clear aligners can be used to slightly move teeth, altering the gum line appearance without surgical intervention.
When the issue is recession rather than excess gum tissue, gum grafting can be an alternative to crown lengthening.
This procedure involves taking tissue from the roof of the mouth and attaching it to the receded area, covering exposed roots and restoring the gum line.
A minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum grafting, this method repositions existing gum tissue to cover exposed roots.
In some instances, a crown can be placed without lengthening, though this may involve some compromises.
The crown margin can be placed slightly below the gum line, though this requires careful consideration of periodontal health.
Careful measurement and placement of the crown can sometimes allow for restoration without violating the biologic width, even when ideal tooth structure exposure is not possible.
In cases of severe damage, extraction and replacement might be considered as alternatives to crown lengthening.
For teeth that are too damaged to save, extraction followed by implant placement can provide a long-lasting solution without the need for crown lengthening.
A bridge can replace one or more missing teeth, potentially avoiding the need for crown lengthening on severely damaged adjacent teeth.
While crown lengthening is an effective procedure for many situations, these alternatives offer various options for restoring damaged teeth. The best choice depends on factors such as the extent of damage, overall oral health, aesthetic goals, and individual patient preferences. It’s essential to consult with your dentist to discuss which option is most suitable for your specific case. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan, whether it involves crown lengthening or one of these alternatives.
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that can significantly improve both the aesthetics and function of your smile. The cost of this treatment in the UK varies based on several factors.
Typically, crown lengthening costs in the UK range from £500 to £2,500 per tooth.
More intricate procedures involving multiple teeth or addressing severe gum issues may incur higher fees, potentially reaching £3,000 or more.
Several elements contribute to the overall cost of your crown lengthening treatment.
The amount of gingival recontouring required can impact the price, with more extensive procedures generally costing more.
Highly experienced periodontists or oral surgeons may charge higher fees for their specialised skills in crown lengthening techniques.
Dental practices in metropolitan areas like London often have higher overheads, which can result in increased treatment costs compared to rural locations.
When budgeting for your crown lengthening procedure, consider these potential additional expenses:
Many dentists offer a complimentary initial assessment, but some may charge a fee ranging from £50 to £150 for a comprehensive examination and treatment planning.
X-rays or 3D scans may be necessary to plan your crown lengthening procedure, typically costing between £50 and £250, depending on the type of imaging required.
It’s important to note that crown lengthening is generally considered a cosmetic procedure in the UK.
The NHS typically does not cover crown lengthening unless it’s deemed medically necessary, such as for decay below the gum line or to prepare for a dental crown.
Most patients opt for private dental care for crown lengthening, allowing for greater flexibility in choosing their preferred dentist and treatment approach.
To make crown lengthening more accessible, many UK dental practices offer various payment options.
Some clinics provide interest-free or low-interest financing, allowing you to spread the cost of your crown lengthening treatment over several months.
While most basic dental insurance plans don’t cover crown lengthening, some comprehensive policies may offer partial coverage. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific details.
When considering the cost of crown lengthening, it’s essential to weigh the long-term benefits against the initial investment.
Crown lengthening can enhance your ability to maintain proper oral hygiene, potentially reducing future dental expenses related to decay or gum disease.
The procedure can significantly improve the appearance of a “gummy smile,” boosting your confidence and potentially impacting various aspects of your personal and professional life.
To get an accurate estimate for your specific crown lengthening needs, it’s best to consult with a qualified dental professional. They can provide a personalised treatment plan and detailed cost breakdown based on your unique oral health situation and aesthetic goals.
