The Major Benefits of Crown Lengthening

Did you know that your gums are just as important as your teeth? They are influential in your dental health and general wellness. Too much gum tissue covering your tooth surfaces not only affects the appearance of your smile, but they can also affect your dental health negatively. Crown lengthening is a procedure that’s used to resculpt the gum line. A soft tissue laser provides a non-invasive solution to improve your gum health and your smile. Here are just a few benefits you can enjoy with crown lengthening.

Correct a Gummy Smile

Excess gum tissue can cover the surfaces of your teeth, making them look shorter. Better known as a “gummy smile,” laser gum surgery can remove the excess tissue to make your teeth appear larger and proportionate. Not only will this give you a more attractive smile, but you’ll also enjoy added dental health benefits by removing the extra tissue.

Reduce Your Risk of Cavities

Food residue, plaque, and bacteria can get trapped underneath your gum line, increasing your risk of cavities. Decay near the tooth roots can be difficult. Extracting the tissue will make it easier to keep your teeth clean to lessen your risk of cavities.

Support a Dental Restoration

Sometimes, gum tissue must be removed before a restoration can be placed. If there is too much tissue, a crown, filling, or veneer will not have a large enough bonding surface. Re-sculpting the gum line will ensure the restoration will fit the tooth correctly to provide the best long-term results.

Reduce Your Risk of Gum Disease

At least 50% of adults have a form of gum disease. Although anyone can be at risk, people with excess gum tissue can be more prone to the infection. A soft tissue laser can not only sculpt the gum line, but it can also treat the infection. The pinpoint accuracy of the dental laser can target the infection and promote the regeneration of healthy gums.

To Enable an Extraction

Crown lengthening may also be recommended for patients requiring a tooth extraction. If a tooth is partially or fully impacted below the gums, the laser can open the tissue to give your dentist access to your tooth. This may also be needed if a tooth has been broken at the gum line.

If your dentist recommends crown lengthening, there’s no reason to worry about scalpels and sutures. A soft tissue laser will provide a less invasive solution to achieve a healthy, beautiful gum line.

About Dr. Jonathan Ross

Dr. Ross earned his dental degree from the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine and continued his education in periodontology. He is board-certified by the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Ross uses the latest technologies and treatments to treat gum disease. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (440) 577-5232.