Crown lengthening is a specialized dental procedure that enhances both the function and appearance of your smile. It involves removing excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth surface, which can be especially beneficial if you have what is commonly referred to as a “gummy smile.” A gummy smile occurs when your teeth appear shorter than usual due to excessive gum coverage. In reality, your teeth may be a normal length, but the extra gum tissue gives the illusion of smaller teeth. Crown lengthening can address this issue by reshaping the gum line, allowing more of your natural tooth to show, resulting in a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.
In addition to improving your smile’s appearance, crown lengthening may be necessary for certain restorative or aesthetic dental treatments. If a tooth is fractured below the gumline or if there is insufficient tooth structure above the gumline to support a restoration like a dental crown or bridge, crown lengthening can help. By exposing more of the tooth, our dentist can successfully place a restoration, ensuring a proper fit and long-lasting results. This makes crown lengthening an important step in preparing your tooth for a successful restoration.
The crown lengthening procedure is typically performed in a single visit. It is a minor surgical treatment where excess gum tissue is carefully removed, and, in some cases, the underlying bone may also be reshaped to create a stable foundation for the tooth. The recovery process is generally straightforward, with most patients returning to their regular routines within a few days.
If you are considering crown lengthening in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for functional or aesthetic reasons, we invite you to call Mainieri Dental at 225-767-8084 and schedule a consultation at our office. Dr. Tommy Mainieri will be happy to evaluate your smile and discuss how crown lengthening can benefit you. We are committed to providing personalized care to help you achieve the healthy, confident smile you deserve.