Crown Lengthening

If you have teeth that appear short because of excess gum tissue, crown lengthening can help. This procedure, offered at East Brunswick Periodontics and Dental Implants in East Brunswick, New Jersey, by Nima Mirmadjlessi, DDS, MSD, trims excess gum tissue to refine a gummy smile. Call today or use the online tool to book an appointment and learn more about crown lengthening procedures.

What is crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a procedure that helps improve the look of an excessively low gumline. The procedure increases the visible surface area of a given tooth. 

You’re placed under local anesthesia or given an IV sedative for the procedure. Dr. Mirmadjlessi makes incisions in your gums and then lifts them away from the surface of your teeth. He washes any exposed roots and bone with saline to clear away any bacteria. He then reshapes and sutures your gums back into their new position. 

The procedure takes approximately an hour. Expect to have some soreness for a few days following your procedure. The staff at East Brunswick Periodontics and Dental Implants gives you comprehensive postoperative care instructions to optimize healing. 

Am I a candidate for a crown lengthening procedure?

You may opt for crown lengthening for restorative or cosmetic reasons. 

Restorative crown lengthening

Crown lengthening is sometimes recommended before you receive restorations, like dental crowns or bridges. Making more of the tooth available improves the ability of the restoration to bond securely. 

Cosmetic crown lengthening

You may choose crown lengthening because a gummy smile makes you feel self-conscious. Crown lengthening makes the proportion of gum to tooth more aesthetically pleasing when you smile. 

How long does it take to heal after crown lengthening?

Expect full healing of your gum tissue to take about three months. The care recommendations provided by East Brunswick Periodontics and Dental Implants staff help you minimize discomfort and swelling during your recovery process.

After your gum surgery, it’s important to:

• Avoid hot foods for 24 hours
• Eat soft and bland foods before easing into others
• Avoid alcohol
• Brush gently
• Avoid smoking for at least 7-10 days
• Leave dressings in for 1-2 weeks
• Use an ice pack to control swelling

The providers at East Brunswick Periodontics and Dental Implants help you schedule follow-ups and are available if you experience any complications like excessive pain or bleeding. 

Set up an appointment to learn more about crown lengthening. Call the team at East Brunswick Periodontics and Dental Implants today, or use this website to book your visit online.