Crown Lengthening Elgin, IL

Crown Lengthening in Elgin, IL – Enhance Your Smile and Gum Health

Crown lengthening is a dental procedure used to expose more of the tooth by removing excess gum tissue. Whether you need this procedure to support restorative work or to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile, Dr. Harshil V. Patel at Delight Family Dental in Elgin, IL, can help you achieve a healthy and aesthetically pleasing smile.

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What is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening involves reshaping the gums and bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This procedure is often performed to prepare a tooth for a dental crown or other restoration or to improve the appearance of short or uneven teeth.

Benefits of Crown Lengthening

  • Restores Tooth Structure: By exposing more of the tooth, crown lengthening allows for successful restorations like crowns or bridges.
  • Improves Aesthetics: If you have a “gummy” smile, crown lengthening can balance the proportion between your teeth and gums for a more symmetrical smile.
  • Enhances Oral Health: Removing excess gum tissue reduces the risk of gum disease by making it easier to clean around the teeth and gums.

When is Crown Lengthening Necessary?

Crown lengthening may be recommended if you have:

  • A “gummy” smile: Excess gum tissue can make your teeth appear shorter than they are.
  • Decay below the gumline: If a tooth is decayed below the gumline, crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth for proper treatment.
  • Insufficient tooth structure: If a tooth is broken or worn down, crown lengthening may be needed to provide enough structure for a crown or filling.

The Crown Lengthening Procedure

Here’s what you can expect during your crown lengthening treatment:
1. Consultation: Dr. Patel will assess your teeth and gums to determine if crown lengthening is appropriate for you.
2. Local Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, local anesthesia is used to numb the area before the procedure begins.
3. Gum Reshaping: Dr. Patel carefully removes excess gum tissue and reshapes the bone (if necessary) to expose more of the tooth.
4. Healing and Recovery: After the procedure, your gums will heal over the next few weeks. A follow-up visit will ensure that healing is progressing well.

FAQs About Crown Lengthening

Is crown lengthening painful?

Local anesthesia ensures that the procedure is pain-free. You may experience some mild discomfort or swelling during the healing process, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long does crown lengthening take to heal?

Full healing typically takes a few weeks. Dr. Patel will provide aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

How much does crown lengthening cost?

The cost of crown lengthening depends on the complexity of the procedure. We offer affordable payment options and work with your insurance provider to minimize costs.

Will crown lengthening affect the appearance of my smile?

Yes, crown lengthening can improve the balance between your teeth and gums, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.

Can I eat normally after crown lengthening?

You may need to stick to soft foods for the first few days after the procedure to avoid irritating the gums. Dr. Patel will provide specific dietary recommendations for your recovery.

If needed you will be referred to specialist and your care will be coordinated by our team.