Crown Lengthening in Peoria
Christopher J. Couri, DDS, MS, provides dental crown lengthening in Peoria, IL. Call 309-674-4148 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure that involves recontouring the gums and sometimes the bone to expose the tooth's surface.
After a tooth breaks or experiences severe decay, the healthy tooth surface may be too small to place a crown. Crowns and other restorative appliances require at least two millimeters of healthy teeth to stay on properly.
Crown lengthening may be necessary when severe tooth decay sits under the gum line. When the dentist exposes the unhealthy portion of the tooth, they can treat it more effectively.
After a crown lengthening procedure, dentists can easily place restorative appliances that adhere to the natural tooth.
The Crown Lengthening Process
The crown lengthening process sometimes begins with placing a temporary crown on the prepared tooth. This placement is done in advance and helps the permanent crown adhere.
Crown lengthening begins with applying a local anesthetic. Some patients choose to use a mild sedative as well. The periodontist will recontour the gums and sometimes the bone around the tooth to ensure the tooth is the right length for crown placement. The periodontist places stitches to help the gum heal correctly.
After the procedure, patients can return to most activities the next day but should avoid strenuous exercise for the next two days. The stitches usually stay in for one to two weeks, with the final restoration in four to six weeks.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
Improving crown placement is the primary benefit of crown lengthening, but dentists perform the procedure for cosmetic reasons as well. Some patients show too much gum above their top teeth while smiling and want to correct this "gummy smile."
The aesthetic results can be dramatic when combined with other cosmetic treatments like veneers and bonding.
Are You a Good Candidate for Crown Lengthening?
To undergo a crown lengthening procedure, a patient should be in good general health. They should also have good oral health, with no gum disease or major tooth decay. Patients should also understand the risks and benefits of the procedure.
Why Choose Christopher J. Couri, DDS, MS?
We take patient care seriously and focus on protecting and caring for natural teeth. We maintain a friendly environment for our patients.
Periodontists like Dr. Couri help patients achieve optimal oral health through preventive care and skillful treatment. Whether you need crown lengthening for cosmetic or restorative reasons, Dr. Couri's office can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crown Lengthening
Here are several of our patients' questions about crown lengthening services:
Is crown lengthening painful?
The procedure itself happens under local anesthesia. It is no more uncomfortable than other routine dental procedures, but there may be some soreness, tenderness, and tooth sensitivity to heat and cold during the healing period.
Please stay with a soft diet and avoid spicy foods and carbonated drinks until your periodontist clears you to have them.
How long does crown lengthening take?
Crown lengthening typically takes about one hour, but the length may vary. It depends on how many teeth need the treatment and how extensive the procedures are.
Is crown lengthening a safe procedure?
It is a routine procedure and well-tolerated. There may be risks, such as infection, tooth sensitivity, and bleeding, as in every surgical or dental procedure, but these should be temporary.
Can I drive myself home from crown lengthening?
Yes, unless you have taken a sedative other than nitrous oxide or local anesthesia.
What happens to restorations when not enough natural tooth is available to anchor them?
If the dentist attempts to place a crown, it will likely fall out quickly. It could also let in food, plaque, and other contaminants that could cause your underlying natural tooth to become decayed or infected.
How long after the procedure can I receive my permanent crown?
Within 6 weeks, your gums will heal enough for a permanent restoration.
Do the gums grow back after the procedure?
No, they do not grow back after treatment. You should only need the procedure once on the tooth in question.
Call Christopher J. Couri, DDS, MS
If you are unhappy with your "gummy smile" or your dentist has told you that you need crown lengthening before you can proceed with a restoration, call Christopher J. Couri, DDS, MS, at 309-674-4148 to make an appointment. Crown lengthening can help you restore and brighten your smile.