Crown Lengthening Specialist

What is crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a procedure to expose more of the white part of your tooth (the crown). At Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants, the specialists use a state-of-the-art laser to precisely mold your gums and bones to expose the right amount of your crowns. This no-scalpel and no-discomfort approach gives you the results you need without major treatment.

When might I need crown lengthening?

You may need crown lengthening for a few different reasons, including:

Smile enhancement

If you have gum tissue overgrowth, your teeth appear shorter than they really are. A crown lengthening procedure can remove the extra gum tissue and reveal the even-looking smile you want.

Preparing for tooth restoration

If you need a tooth restoration, like a dental crown or bridge, you need a certain amount of healthy tooth structure to support that restoration. However, if your tooth is broken below the gums, badly decayed, or too short overall, crown lengthening can help. 

This procedure alters gum and bone tissue to reveal more of your natural crown so you can then have the restorative procedure you need.

No matter your reason for crown lengthening, this procedure can give you more tooth and less gum tissue in a safe and effective manner.

How does crown lengthening work?

Crown lengthening is an in-office procedure at Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants. For a laser crown lengthening procedure, your dentist uses a special dental laser to excise small amounts of gum tissue and bone. 

The laser offers superior precision and control, allowing for gum and bone balancing without a scalpel.  You have minimal bleeding because the laser encourages blood clotting and seals blood vessels after the procedure.  

What can I expect after crown lengthening?

You generally need only a day or two off work after crown lengthening. Over the next few months, you use special protocols to help your gums heal, like using a soft-bristle toothbrush and prescription mouth rinse. 

Once you're fully healed, you start the restorative dentistry process that's right for your situation. 

To learn more about how crown lengthening can help you, call Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants now.