Crown Lengthening in Portland, OR
Crown lengthening is a specialized dental procedure designed to expose more of a tooth’s surface by reshaping or removing excess gum tissue and, in some cases, a small amount of bone. At East Portland Dentistry in Portland, OR, crown lengthening is performed to improve both oral health and smile aesthetics. Whether you need additional tooth structure for a dental crown or want to correct a “gummy” smile, this procedure can provide lasting functional and cosmetic benefits.
Crown lengthening is commonly recommended before restorative treatments such as dental crowns or bridges, especially when a tooth is broken near the gumline. It is also an effective cosmetic solution for patients who feel their teeth appear short due to excess gum tissue. By carefully contouring the gumline, our dental team enhances the overall balance and proportion of your smile.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a minor surgical procedure that adjusts the position of the gum tissue and underlying bone around a tooth. The goal is to reveal more of the natural tooth structure. This may be necessary for restorative reasons, cosmetic improvements, or both.
There are two primary purposes for crown lengthening:
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Restorative Crown Lengthening - Performed to expose enough healthy tooth structure so a dental crown or filling can be securely placed.
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Cosmetic Crown Lengthening - Reshapes excessive gum tissue to create a more balanced, proportionate smile. |
When decay, fractures, or previous dental work extend below the gumline, placing a restoration can be difficult. Crown lengthening makes the tooth accessible and ensures a secure, long-lasting result. In cosmetic cases, the procedure improves the appearance of short or uneven teeth caused by excess gum tissue.
Why You Might Need Crown Lengthening
There are several reasons why a dentist may recommend crown lengthening in Portland, OR. The procedure is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at preserving and restoring oral health.
Common indications include:
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Tooth Decay Below the Gumline - When cavities extend beneath the gum tissue, additional exposure is needed for proper restoration.
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Broken or Fractured Teeth - Teeth that break at or below the gumline require more visible structure for crown placement.
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Insufficient Tooth Structure for a Crown - A stable dental crown requires adequate exposed tooth surface.
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Excessive Gum Tissue - A “gummy smile” may make teeth appear short or uneven.
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Uneven Gumline - Asymmetrical gums can affect smile aesthetics and overall facial harmony. |
By addressing these concerns, crown lengthening supports long-term dental stability and improves overall smile appearance.
The Crown Lengthening Procedure
Understanding what to expect during crown lengthening surgery can help you feel more comfortable and informed. At East Portland Dentistry, our dental team carefully evaluates your oral health before recommending the procedure.
The process typically involves the following steps:
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Comprehensive Examination - Our dentists assess the affected tooth, surrounding gums, and bone structure using digital imaging and clinical evaluation.
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Local Anesthesia - The area is numbed to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
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Gum Tissue Reshaping - Excess gum tissue is gently removed or repositioned to expose more of the tooth.
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Bone Adjustment (If Necessary) - In some cases, a small amount of bone is reshaped to achieve optimal results.
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Suturing and Healing - The gums are sutured into their new position to promote proper healing. |
The procedure is typically completed in a single visit, depending on the number of teeth involved. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and recovery times are generally manageable with proper aftercare.
Recovery and Aftercare
After crown lengthening treatment, the healing period is essential for achieving optimal results. Mild swelling or tenderness is normal in the first few days. Following your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully supports smooth healing and long-term success.
During recovery, patients are typically advised to:
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Maintain Gentle Oral Hygiene - Brush carefully around the treated area to avoid irritation.
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Use Prescribed Medications - Anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics may be recommended.
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Avoid Hard or Crunchy Foods - Soft foods help prevent disruption of the healing tissue.
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Attend Follow-Up Appointments - Monitoring ensures proper gum healing and readiness for final restorations. |
Healing times vary, but most patients recover within a few weeks. If crown lengthening is performed for restorative purposes, the final crown placement usually occurs after the gums have fully healed.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening offers both functional and aesthetic advantages. Whether performed to prepare for a dental restoration or to enhance your smile, the results can be transformative.
Key benefits include:
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Improved Restoration Stability - Provides sufficient tooth structure for secure crown placement.
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Enhanced Smile Appearance - Reduces excessive gum tissue for a more balanced look.
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Better Oral Health - Makes teeth easier to clean and maintain.
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Long-Lasting Results - When properly maintained, results are permanent.
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Increased Confidence - A more proportionate smile often boosts self-esteem. |
By exposing healthy tooth structure and reshaping the gumline, crown lengthening supports both dental function and overall appearance.
Is Crown Lengthening Safe?
Crown lengthening is considered a safe and routine dental procedure when performed by experienced professionals. Our dental team at East Portland Dentistry follows strict clinical protocols to ensure patient safety and comfort.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including temporary sensitivity, mild swelling, or minor bleeding. However, complications are uncommon when post-operative instructions are followed carefully. Patients with good overall oral health typically heal quickly and experience predictable outcomes.
A thorough consultation helps determine whether crown lengthening is the right choice for your specific needs. Factors such as gum health, bone levels, and overall dental condition are carefully evaluated before proceeding.
Crown Lengthening vs. Gum Contouring
While often used interchangeably, crown lengthening and gum contouring are not identical procedures. Gum contouring typically focuses solely on reshaping excess gum tissue for cosmetic improvement. Crown lengthening, on the other hand, may involve adjusting both gum tissue and underlying bone to expose more tooth structure.
The primary difference lies in purpose:
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Gum Contouring - Primarily cosmetic and usually involves soft tissue only.
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Crown Lengthening - May serve restorative and cosmetic purposes and can involve bone reshaping. |
Understanding this distinction ensures that patients receive the most appropriate treatment for their dental goals.
FAQs
Is crown lengthening painful?
Crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia, which keeps the area numb and comfortable during the procedure. Mild soreness or swelling afterward is normal but can usually be managed with recommended medications and proper aftercare.
How long does it take to heal after crown lengthening?
Initial healing generally takes one to two weeks, though complete tissue stabilization may take several weeks. If the procedure is performed before placing a dental crown, your dentist will ensure the gums are fully healed before final restoration.
Is crown lengthening only for cosmetic purposes?
No. While crown lengthening can improve the appearance of a gummy smile, it is often performed for restorative reasons. Exposing additional tooth structure allows dentists to properly place crowns or treat decay that extends below the gumline.
Will my teeth look longer after crown lengthening?
Yes. By reshaping or removing excess gum tissue, more of the natural tooth surface becomes visible. This often results in teeth appearing longer and more proportionate within your smile. |
