Crown Lengthening

Tooth decay can sometimes do so much damage, that repair needs to be performed under the gum line. When this occurs, a crown lengthening is needed. Here at Advantage Dentistry in Kenmore, NY we perform this routine procedure for many of our patients. It is important to keep as many real teeth as you have, which is why crown lengthening is key.

To successfully lengthen the crown of the tooth, we actually take away some of the gum tissue. To begin, your dentist will make cuts to the gum tissue to pull it away from the teeth. Even if only one tooth needs to be worked on, the gum tissue surrounding a few teeth will be pulled back so that the gum line looks natural. If any bone tissue also needs to be removed, it will be removed at this point. Then, your dentist will stitch the gum tissue into place to heal. The teeth are now ready for any work they may need. If a crown is being placed on the tooth, your dentist will want to wait until the gums have healed for proper crown placement.

Be careful when brushing in the area until healing has progressed. Avoid the gum line and do not use floss. Instead, use a toothpick to remove any debris.

Crown lengthening can save a tooth from infection or extraction. To schedule an appointment with Advantage Dentistry here in Kenmore, NY, give our office a call at (716) 877-2275. Additional information may be found at our website, www.advantagedentistry.com.