Crown
Lengthening
Periodontal
procedures are available to lay the groundwork for restorative and
cosmetic dentistry and/or improve the esthetics of your gum line.
You
may have asked your periodontist about procedures to improve a"gummy"
smile because your teeth appear short. Your teeth may actually be
the proper length, but they're covered with too much gum tissue.
To correct this, your periodontist performs crown lengthening.
During
this procedure, excess gum and bone tissue is reshaped to expose
more of the natural tooth. This can be done to one tooth, to even
your gum line, or to several teeth to expose a natural, broad smile.
Your
periodontist may also recommend crown lengthening to make a restorative
or cosmetic dental procedure possible. Perhaps your tooth is decayed,
broken below the gum line, or has insufficient tooth structure for
a restoration, such as a crown or bridge. Crown lengthening adjusts
the gum and bone levels to expose more of the tooth so it can be
restored.
What
are the benefits of this procedure?
Whether
you have crown lengthening to improve function or esthetics, patients
often receive the benefits of both. A beautiful new smile and improved
periodontal health -- your keys to smiling, eating and speaking
with comfort and confidence.
©
1999 The American Academy of Periodontology
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