Crown Lengthening in St. George, UT

Save Your Tooth and Restore Your Smile

At our dental practice, we are committed to one goal above all else: saving your natural teeth whenever possible. Modern dentistry offers a variety of treatments to restore and preserve your teeth, and one such procedure is crown lengthening. This surgical procedure is designed to expose more of the tooth structure, making it possible to restore teeth that might otherwise be considered unsalvageable.

Whether a tooth has decayed extensively, broken below the gum line, or lacks sufficient structure for a crown, crown lengthening can provide the access and support needed for a successful restoration. By reshaping the gum and, if necessary, the underlying bone, this procedure helps maintain your natural smile and supports long-term oral health.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a routine surgical procedure that adjusts the gum line to expose more of the natural tooth structure. Despite its name, the procedure does not actually make the crown of the tooth longer. Instead, it lowers the gum line and, in some cases, recontours the underlying bone to provide the dentist with enough tooth surface to securely place a crown or other restoration.

This procedure is often recommended when:

• A tooth has decayed extensively or has a cavity near the gum line

• A tooth has broken below the gum line

• There is insufficient tooth structure to support a crown or filling

• Cosmetic adjustments are needed to create a more balanced gum line and smile appearance

Crown lengthening is a versatile solution that not only saves compromised teeth but can also enhance the appearance of your smile.

How Crown Lengthening Works

The crown lengthening procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort throughout the process. Here’s what to expect:

1. Assessment and Planning
   Your dentist will carefully examine your tooth and gums to determine how much gum tissue needs to be removed and whether any bone adjustment is necessary. This ensures a precise and effective procedure.

2. Gum and Bone Reshaping
   The dentist carefully removes a portion of the gum tissue and, in some cases, reshapes the underlying bone. This exposes more of the tooth’s surface, creating a solid foundation for a restoration such as a crown.

3. Healing and Recovery
   After the procedure, the gum tissue is sutured to allow for proper healing. Initial recovery typically takes a few days, with full healing occurring over a few weeks. Patients are advised to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal results.

4. Restoration Placement
   Once the area has healed, your dentist can place a crown or other restorative solution, ensuring that the tooth is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Benefits of Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening offers multiple benefits for patients who need restorative or cosmetic dental work:

• Preserves Natural Teeth: Rather than extracting a tooth that cannot support a crown, crown lengthening allows for restoration and preservation.

• Provides a Strong Foundation: Exposing more of the tooth ensures that crowns and other restorations have adequate support and longevity.

• Improves Oral Health: By reshaping the gum line and adjusting the bone, crown lengthening can reduce areas where plaque and bacteria accumulate, supporting overall dental health.

• Enhances Smile Aesthetics: Crown lengthening can also be performed for cosmetic reasons, creating a more balanced and harmonious gum line.

Who Can Benefit from Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is ideal for patients who:

• Have a tooth broken or decayed below the gum line

• Need a tooth restored with a crown or large filling

• Want to improve the appearance of their smile through gum reshaping

• Are committed to preserving natural teeth rather than extraction

Your dentist will evaluate your individual case and determine whether crown lengthening is the most appropriate solution for your dental needs.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Crown lengthening is a safe, effective, and often life-saving procedure for your teeth. By exposing more of the tooth structure, this treatment allows your dentist to provide strong, long-lasting restorations while maintaining the natural appearance of your smile.

If you have a tooth that has been compromised by decay, trauma, or insufficient structure, don’t wait to explore your options. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how crown lengthening can save your tooth and restore both function and confidence to your smile.