Do you suffer from a "gummy" smile that has robbed you of your self confidence? You should consider getting it corrected with crown lengthening. This procedure will give you a more natural and full smile and help restore your sagging self esteem.

The Procedure

Getting your crowns lengthened is an inpatient procedure that involves anesthesia to numb potential pain. Incisions will be made in your gums to help expose more of your visible tooth. Sometimes, this doesn't require actually removing gum tissue, but simply gently pulling it down and away from the tooth.

Other times, actually removing gum tissue may be necessary. In severe circumstances, bone and tissue covering the crown may have to be removed. Once your gums have healed from the surgery, the excessive "gumminess" that plagued your smile will be eliminated.

Typical Cost of Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is not an inexpensive procedure; it can cost as much as $2,000 to perform. Unfortunately, the procedure is usually not covered by dental insurance; it is often considered an aesthetic or "elective" procedure, which means it isn't essential to your dental health.

However, if your dentist decides that crown lengthening is the only way to save a tooth or that it will improve the health of your gums, insurance may cover some of the expenses. Talk to your dentist and insurance agent to help sort out the details, as they will vary highly depending on your coverage.

Potential Risks That May Occur

While crown lengthening is a relatively safe procedure, it still comes with a few risks. Complications that may occur during this procedure include:

• Bleeding that lasts longer than an hour
• Temporary or permanent temperature sensitivity
• Infections
• Severe pain
• Swelling
• Red gums
• Loosened tooth

Other Reasons to Try the Procedure

Typically, crown lengthening is used as a cosmetic procedure for when your teeth are shorter than you'd like or if your gums are threatening to overgrow them. However, there are many instances when crown lengthening can be a useful restorative procedure.

These restoration efforts are usually centered on instances of broken teeth or decay that occurs below the gum line. Cutting away the excessive gum will expose the problematic area and allow your dentist to fix it.

Now that you understand crown lengthening, you can decide whether or not this procedure is right for you. For many people, getting rid of that gummy smile makes it worth the investment. For more information, talk to a company like Glendale Dental Group.