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Crown Lengthening Oak Park, IL

Crown lengthening is done when a tooth needs to be fixed. Sometimes, not enough of the tooth sticks out above the gum to support a filling or crown.

Crown lengthening is a procedure designed to show more of your smile by reducing the prominence of gum tissue. A full examination and series of x-rays will be needed to determine if you’re a viable candidate for crown lengthening. At One Fine Smile, we will help to ensure that your crown lengthening procedure in Oak Park is comfortable and convenient.

dentist examining woman mouth

What is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening involves removing some gum tissue and exposing more surface of the tooth towards the gum line. There are several reasons why this procedure may be done, but an exam is needed to determine if it will benefit you and your current dental issues. The procedure is a type of surgery, but it can be done under local anesthetic so that you can benefit from a quick, efficient procedure that yields quality results.  

Why Would Crown Lengthening Be Needed?  

There are many reasons why you may be advised to have crown lengthening done. For some people, these reasons are more cosmetic, and for others, the benefits are diagnostic and pertinent to their dental health and well-being. Some of these reasons include:  

  • You have a short “gummy” smile
  • You need extra room for a crown to be placed  
  • You are having veneers placed
  • You have gum disease  
  • A tooth has broken off at the gum line

How Does Crown Lengthening Work?

Our highly trained dentists will begin by giving you a local anesthetic in the area of the crown lengthening to make you the most comfortable during the procedure. Next, they will make small cuts into the gum line that will pull the gums away from the teeth. This is important because this will expose the roots of the teeth and the surrounding bone. In some cases, simply removing a little gum tissue will expose enough tooth for your dentist to place a crown or filling.   

The amount of gum tissue removed depends on the severity of the condition. The more severe the situation, the more gum tissue will be removed. Once the dentist is satisfied with the amount of tooth exposed, the area will be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to avoid any bacteria from forming and causing an infection. The gums will be sutured, and you will be given aftercare instructions, as well as follow up appointments, will be made.

Do You Need a Crown Lengthening Procedure in Oak Park, IL?

At One Fine Smile, you’ll find the expertise and caring hands to make your next procedure a success. Call today to get started!