Crown Lengthening
Wylie, Texas
Crown lengthening, also referred to as a gum lift, treats a "gummy smile" where excessive gum tissue makes teeth appear shorter than normal. The procedure removes small sections of tissue to reveal more tooth structure, creating a longer, more balanced appearance.
Gum contouring similarly reshapes uneven gum lines that cause teeth to look misshapen or shorter. Both procedures serve cosmetic purposes and support dental restoration work, including veneer placement and crown application when teeth have decay or injury near the gum line.
The Procedure
These outpatient procedures begin with a thorough assessment of dental health and anesthetic administration. The dentist uses hand-held instruments or lasers to eliminate excess tissue and may reshape surrounding bone if necessary. The gum tissue is contoured around tooth bases for an even line, with sutures possibly required for closure.
Recovery
Post-operative instructions address swelling and bleeding management, dietary restrictions, and oral hygiene modifications. Antibiotics, medicated rinses, or pain relievers may be prescribed. Complete healing spans several months with follow-up dental appointments monitoring recovery.
