Crown Lengthening in Vancouver to Improve Tooth Exposure

If you find your teeth appear to be short or even feel so when you look in the mirror because your smile reveals more gum area than tooth surface area, a crown lengthening procedure can help. At Lacamas Dental & Cosmetic Center, our Vancouver, WA, dental practice performs a crown lengthening procedure to contour your gum line so more of your tooth is visible. This procedure is often used for both cosmetic improvements and restorative needs.

The process of crown lengthening is a surgical procedure in which excess gum tissue is trimmed away, and in some cases, the jawbone is reshaped to achieve a more balanced appearance. The aim is not to achieve a completely different smile, but rather to adjust the proportions so that your teeth appear healthier and more natural-looking.

What to Do If You Have Excess Gum Tissue or a Gummy Smile 

A “gummy” smile can cause teeth to look small or “hidden,” even if they are healthy. This is usually due to the amount of gum showing up compared to the amount of tooth surface exposed. Crown lengthening, or gum contouring/reshaping, is a procedure that can correct this condition and help restore balance between your teeth and gums.

You may be a good candidate if:

• Your teeth may look short or misshapen
• You display a lot of gum tissue when smiling
• You have difficulty keeping certain areas clean
• You require more tooth structure exposed for a crown or filling

Cosmetic and Functional Benefits of Crown Lengthening 

Crown lengthening is a procedure that goes beyond cosmetic purposes. In fact, the surgery is also necessary for ensuring proper dental restorations, which requires that adequate healthy tooth structure be exposed. Whether to enhance cosmetic looks or for dental purposes, the surgery is tailored to suit your needs.

Benefits may include:

• A more even and balanced smile
• More visible teeth
• Easier oral hygiene around the gum line
• Improved care for crowns or other dental work

What to Expect From the Crown Lengthening Procedure  

Crown lengthening is a procedure that is carefully conducted to ensure that you do not feel any pain or discomfort. This procedure begins with the mild numbing of the area to be treated, after which your dentist will reshape the excessive gum tissue and make minor adjustments to the bone, where necessary, to expose more of the natural tooth. Afterwards, you may experience some mild soreness or swelling, but this typically resolves within days if properly cared for. You’ll get clear after-care instructions and follow-up support that will make sure the area heals healthily. Most people find the results well worth the brief recovery time.

Is Crown Lengthening Right for You?

Every smile is different. During your visit, Dr. Thomas Backus will examine your gum line, discuss needs and concerns, and decide if a crown lengthening procedure or some other type of treatment is the best option for you. Our aim is to make a recommendation that feels right for you—not rushed or unnecessary.

Are you dealing with a problem or issue due to excess gum tissue or a gummy smile? A crown lengthening procedure may provide an easily accessible treatment for your concern. Please contact us at Lacamas Dental & Cosmetic Center for an appointment and learn more information regarding the process of crown lengthening in Vancouver, WA. We will help and make sure that you are comfortable and confident with your smile.