Are you looking for a new dentist? We know finding a new dentist can be challenging. That’s why we recommend you reach out for a consultation. You can come in, meet the team, and ask any questions about our services. Dr. Maryanne Butler and Dr. Amy Riffel are highly skilled in periodontics and implant dentistry. We also offer esthetic services at our Parker and Glendale, Colorado, facility, including crown lengthening, gingivectomy, and gum grafting (with root coverage when possible). You can trust that we will provide you with the best possible care.

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Crown Lengthening: What it is and How it Can Help Your Smile 

If someone has told you that you need crown lengthening, you may wonder what this dental procedure is and how it could help your smile. Crown lengthening can provide many benefits, but before deciding if it’s right for you, it’s essential to understand why the procedure is necessary and how it works. Let’s look at how crown lengthening can help improve oral health and the appearance of your teeth. 

What is Crown Lengthening? 

In some cases, periodontal procedures help lay the groundwork for restorative and cosmetic dentistry or improve the esthetics of your gum line. Crown lengthening is a surgical periodontal procedure that removes excess bone, and sometimes soft tissue, around the gum line to expose more of the tooth. This is different from a gingivectomy, which only includes the removal of soft tissue (not bone). We may also use crown lengthening for a variety of reasons, including restorative, hygienic, or cosmetic purposes. 

When is Crown Lengthening Necessary? 

Crown lengthening may be necessary if there isn’t enough healthy tooth structure exposed above the gum for us to place a restoration (crown or filling). This often occurs when there is decay deep below the gum or part of a tooth has broken below the gum. Crown lengthening of the tooth will allow access to the deep decay or the broken part of the tooth. This allows your dentist to place a restoration such as a crown, bridge, or veneer on the tooth to maximize esthetics and achieve the best restorative outcome. We can also complete crown lengthening on teeth with severe wear that is too worn down to restore at their current size. 

We may also use it to reshape uneven gums or, in some cases, reduce excessive gingival display when smiling (known as a “gummy” smile). A “gummy” smile can be a cosmetic concern, compromising the appearance of the teeth and making the teeth look disproportionately small. Excess gums can also trap plaque and bacteria, resulting in swelling and discomfort. When we complete crown lengthening for cosmetic reasons, the teeth may or may not require restorations after the procedure. This depends upon the shape, size, and wear of the teeth. In some cases, we may also provide crown lengthening in preparation for orthodontic treatment to allow bonding of brackets or implant placement to ensure the best esthetic outcome.

The Benefits of Crown Lengthening 

Crown lengthening can help improve both the appearance and function of your teeth. Not only will this make them look better when you smile, but it could also help preserve them from further damage due to decay or trauma. Additionally, crown lengthening can help reduce gum disease symptoms such as swelling and bleeding by exposing more of the healthy parts of your teeth, making them easier to clean and maintain with regular brushing and flossing.  

Crown Lengthening in Parker and Glendale, CO

At Mountainview Periodontics and Periodontics of Cherry Creek, we offer a variety of treatments so you can find the perfect one for your needs. We want to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health for years to come. And we want to make sure you feel comfortable with us before you start your treatment.

We understand how important it is to have healthy teeth and gums that look pleasing when you smile! Crown lengthening often makes a restorative or cosmetic dental procedure possible. This is especially true if you have a tooth that is decayed, a tooth broken below the gum line, or a tooth that has insufficient tooth structure for a restoration, such as a crown or bridge. 

If you think you might benefit from crown lengthening, then our experienced team would be happy to discuss this procedure with you in greater detail during an appointment at our office. Contact us today to learn more about how crown lengthening can help improve your oral health!