Close Up on Aesthetic Periodontics: Crown Lengthening

For those who might have seen the phrase "aesthetic periodontics" on our website and started wondering what kinds of procedures are bracketed under this phrase, we thought we’d start an occasional blog series to cast a light on these specialist treatments offered by Norfolk Dental Specialists.

Aesthetic periodontics refers to those treatments that have been specifically designed to enhance the appearance of gums and teeth, particularly after they've been affected by gum disease (periodontal condition) or a developmental issue (sometimes called a congenital condition). This month we’re focussing on Crown Lengthening.

Crown Lengthening: Revealing a More Beautiful Smile

This procedure involves reshaping excess gum and bone tissue to reveal more of the natural tooth structure beneath. This can be done for:

• A single tooth: To create a more symmetrical gum line.
• Multiple teeth: To craft a broader, more natural-looking smile.

When Might You Need Crown Lengthening?

While sometimes this procedure is undertaken for purely aesthetic reasons, our periodontist may also recommend crown lengthening as a necessary step for other dental procedures.

These are some of the situations where crown lengthening can be helpful:

• Broken or Decayed Tooth Below the Gum Line: If you have a tooth that's decayed or broken below the gum line, there may not be enough healthy tooth structure left for a restoration like a crown or bridge. Crown lengthening can expose more of the tooth, allowing for a proper and long-lasting restoration.
• Gummy Smile: A gummy smile occurs when excessive gum tissue covers too much of the teeth. Crown lengthening can address this cosmetic concern by exposing more of the natural tooth crown.
• Uneven Gum Line: An uneven gum line can detract from your smile's aesthetics. Crown lengthening can reshape the gum tissue to create a more symmetrical and balanced appearance.

Benefits of Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening can also be beneficial for your oral health. When excess gum tissue covers too much of the tooth, it can create areas that are difficult to clean effectively with brushing and flossing. This can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. By exposing more of the tooth surface, crown lengthening makes it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene, reducing the chance of future dental problems.

Ready to Learn More?

Ready to explore if crown lengthening could be a procedure that would work for you? Contact Norfolk Dental Specialists on 01603 632525 if you have any questions about aesthetic periodontal treatments. We will help you to develop a personalised treatment plan to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile that you can confidently show off.