Crown lengthening Treatment
Book an AppointmentCrown Lengthening in Singapore
Crown Lengthening by Ashford Dental
At Ashford Dental Centre, crown lengthening is a minor periodontal procedure that reshapes the gum tissue and, in some cases, a small amount of bone around a tooth. The goal is to expose more of the natural tooth structure.
Crown lengthening may be recommended for cosmetic reasons, such as correcting a “gummy smile” or for restorative reasons when a tooth is damaged, broken, decayed below the gum line or needs a dental crown.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that exposes more of a tooth by carefully removing and reshaping excess gum tissue. In some cases, a small amount of surrounding bone may also be adjusted.
Despite the name, the procedure does not actually make the tooth longer. Instead, it reveals more of the tooth that is already hidden beneath the gums.
Crown lengthening is commonly performed for:
- Preparing a tooth for a dental crown or filling
- Treating teeth that are fractured or decayed below the gum line
- Improving access to a tooth during restorative treatment
- Correcting a gummy smile
- Improving the balance and proportions of the smile
1. To Save a Damaged Tooth
If a tooth has broken close to the gum line or has deep decay beneath the gums, there may not be enough visible tooth structure to securely support a crown or filling.
Crown lengthening exposes more of the healthy tooth so the restoration can fit properly and last longer.
2. Before a Dental Crown or Bridge
Some teeth do not have enough height above the gum line for a crown to stay firmly in place. In these situations, crown lengthening creates the space needed for a better-fitting and more stable restoration.
3. To Treat a Gummy Smile
Some people naturally show more gum tissue than tooth when they smile. This can make the teeth appear short or uneven.
Cosmetic crown lengthening removes excess gum tissue to reveal more of the natural teeth, creating a more proportionate and confident smile.
4. To Improve Oral Health
Excess gum tissue can make certain areas difficult to clean. By exposing more of the tooth, crown lengthening may help make brushing and flossing easier and reduce the risk of future gum problems.
You may be a candidate for crown lengthening if you have:
- A tooth broken at or below the gum line
- Severe tooth decay beneath the gums
- A tooth that needs a crown but has limited visible structure
- Short-looking teeth or an uneven gum line
- A gummy smile that affects your confidence
- Difficulty keeping certain teeth clean because of excess gum tissue
Our team at Ashford Dental Centre will examine your teeth and gums and determine whether crown lengthening is the most suitable treatment for your needs.
Crown Lengthening for Cosmetic Purposes
Many patients seek crown lengthening because they are unhappy with the appearance of a gummy smile.
When too much gum tissue covers the teeth, the smile can appear unbalanced even if the teeth themselves are healthy. Cosmetic crown lengthening gently reshapes the gum line to create:
- Longer and more proportionate-looking teeth
- A more even gum contour
- Better symmetry between the upper front teeth
- A brighter and more attractive smile
Cosmetic crown lengthening is often performed on the upper front teeth and can make a significant difference to overall smile aesthetics.
Our Crown Lengthening Treatment Expert Dentists
Ashford Dental Centre
We offers a comprehensive range of dental specialists to address various dental concerns effectively
Procedure
Consultation and Assessment
Your dentist will:
- Examine your teeth and gums
- Take dental X-rays if needed
- Assess the amount of tooth and gum tissue involved
- Discuss whether the procedure is being performed for cosmetic or restorative reasons
- Create a personalised treatment plan
During the Procedure
- The area is numbed with local anaesthesia.
- The dentist gently lifts the gum tissue around the tooth.
- Excess gum tissue is removed to expose more of the tooth.
- If needed, a small amount of bone is reshaped.
- The gums are repositioned and sutured into place.
The procedure is generally comfortable and most patients remain awake throughout treatment.
Does Crown Lengthening Hurt?
Crown lengthening is performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure.
After treatment, it is normal to experience:
- Mild swelling
- Slight discomfort or tenderness
- Minor bleeding for the first day
- Sensitivity around the treated area
These symptoms are usually temporary and can often be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief, cold compresses and following your dentist’s instructions.
Recovery After Crown Lengthening
Most patients recover from crown lengthening within one to two weeks, although complete healing of the gum tissue may take several weeks.
If bone reshaping was required, the area may take a little longer to fully heal before a permanent crown or restoration can be placed.
Recovery Tips
To support healing after crown lengthening:
- Eat soft foods for the first few days
- Avoid very hot, spicy, or crunchy foods
- Do not smoke
- Avoid brushing directly over the treated area until advised
- Use any prescribed mouth rinse or medication
- Attend your follow-up appointment
Most patients can return to normal daily activities the next day.
How Long After Crown Lengthening Can I Get My Crown?
If crown lengthening is performed to prepare for a dental crown, you may need to wait for the gums to heal before the final crown is placed.
In many cases:
- Front teeth may require 6 to 12 weeks of healing
- Back teeth may require 4 to 8 weeks
- More complex cases involving bone reshaping may need additional healing time
Your dentist will monitor the healing process and advise when your final restoration can be completed.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening offers both cosmetic and functional advantages.
Cosmetic Benefits
- Reduces the appearance of a gummy smile
- Makes teeth appear longer and more balanced
- Creates a more attractive gum line
- Improves confidence when smiling
Functional Benefits
- Exposes enough tooth structure for a crown or filling
- Helps save teeth that might otherwise need extraction
- Improves access for cleaning and treatment
- Increases the long-term success of restorations
Frequently Asked Questions About Crown Lengthening Treatment in Singapore
Is crown lengthening a worthwhile procedure?
If the tooth has not undergone much restorative dentistry and there is a considerable amount of healthy tooth structure left, then functional crown lengthening is a good choice for restoring the tooth as it allows access to the necessary areas.
What is the level of discomfort associated with a crown lengthening procedure?
Most individuals who have crown lengthening will receive a local anesthetic, and a significant number also choose dental sedation for additional pain management. This will make the procedure nearly pain-free.
What sets crown lengthening apart from gingivectomy?
Crown lengthening surgery can improve the bony structure, resulting in teeth that appear more natural. Gingivectomy is the process of eliminating gum tissue to uncover additional tooth structure beneath the gum line. Gingivectomy is frequently employed for the elimination of fibrous overgrowth of gum tissues.
Is it possible for crown lengthening to have negative outcomes?
Crown lengthening is a complex surgical procedure. Despite being complex, minimal complications and risks are associated with it. An experienced periodontist can easily complete this procedure in one hour without any issues. The sole complication that may arise from this procedure is if an infection occurs.
Does crown lengthening last forever?
The crown lengthening procedure does not offer a permanent solution. Nevertheless, this will result in additional tooth structure being formed to provide better support for the new crown, thereby enhancing the likelihood of a successful full restoration.
Is it possible to speak after crown lengthening surgery?
Minimize your movements and limit talking for a few hours. These actions might impede the initial healing process. Refrain from intense physical activity or lifting heavy objects for 5 days post-surgery to prevent changes in blood pressure that could impact sutures, bone grafts, or sinus healing.
What is the amount of bone removed during crown lengthening surgery?
The bone surrounding the tooth or teeth becoming thinner results in less pronounced craters or ridges, leading to a smoother soft tissue topography. Enough bone is taken out to establish a gap of 3 millimeters between the bone crest and the finishing-line margin of the new restoration.
Is it permissible to eat following crown lengthening?
Be cautious while eating, it is highly suggested to consume softer foods during the initial 5-7 days post-surgery. Avoid consuming foods that are difficult to chew due to their toughness. Kindly refrain from consuming foods that are difficult to chew, gooey, or hot. It is recommended to consume cold and room temperature foods 24 hours post-procedure for optimal results.
Can crown lengthening cause teeth to become loose?
Your tooth could appear longer compared to the surrounding teeth, and if bone has been taken out, it might result in the tooth feeling less secure. In the event of future tooth loss, crown lengthening could potentially complicate the placement of a dental implant by the surgeon.
Is anesthesia given for crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is typically carried out with the use of a local anesthetic. How long the procedure lasts will primarily be determined by the number of teeth affected and if any bone removal is necessary in addition to the soft tissue.
Is there a maximum age for crown lengthening procedure?
Studies have indicated that the typical growth of the front teeth is mostly finished around 15 to 16 years old. Esthetic crown lengthening surgery is typically suggested during this stage of life.
Is it possible to receive a crown without the need for crown lengthening?
Your crown will receive the necessary support to flourish. Crown lengthening may not be required prior to a patient getting a dental crown for restorative purposes. Nonetheless, it could be essential in your situation if you have a tooth that is naturally short.
Can crown lengthening alter your facial appearance?
Crown lengthening involves reshaping or recontouring bone and gum tissue to reveal more of the natural tooth. This procedure can be done on one tooth, multiple teeth, or all the gums, revealing a beautiful smile.
Is it possible for gums to regrow following crown lengthening procedure?
A popular misunderstanding is that gums have the ability to regrow after undergoing surgical changes in crown lengthening. Yet, the fact remains that once gum tissue is gone, it will not regenerate. Understanding the full implications of the procedure is essential due to its permanence.
How long does it take to recover from crown lengthening surgery?
Although crown lengthening surgery is straightforward, it is a major oral surgery, resulting in a potentially lengthy recovery time. On average, it takes patients two to three months to fully recover. Nevertheless, you should anticipate resuming regular activities within a few days following the surgery.
Why Choose Ashford Dental Centre for Crown Lengthening in Singapore?
At Ashford Dental Centre, we understand that crown lengthening is not only about exposing more tooth structure. It is also about preserving your natural teeth, improving the appearance of your smile and helping future dental treatment succeed.
Our clinic provides:
- Experienced dentists and periodontists
- Careful planning with digital imaging and dental assessment
- Gentle treatment techniques focused on comfort
- Cosmetic and restorative crown lengthening options
- Personalized follow-up care and monitoring
We take the time to explain your options and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Crown Lengthening Treatment Cost in Singapore
The cost of Crown Lengthening Treatment at our clinic in Singapore depends on the area being treated and the complexity of the procedure. To help offset treatment costs, we offer various financing options, including insurance coverage, Medisave claims, and for Singaporeans, the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) subsidies. Additionally, Ashford provides flexible , in-house installment plans, allowing our customers to enjoy special financial plans tailored to their needs and preferences. Please get in touch with us for more information.
Visit Our Dental Clinics
The Ashford Group has 4 strategically located dental clinic facilities islandwide across Singapore, in Thomson, Serangoon, Simpang Bedok and Jalan Kayu.
215 Upper Thomson Rd, Thomson Ridge, Singapore 574349
Mon – Fri : 9 AM to 9 PMSat & Sun : 9 AM to 6 PM
197 Upper Paya Lebar Rd, Singapore 534874
Mon – Fri : 9 AM to 9 PMSat & Sun : 9 AM to 6 PM
337 Bedok Rd, Singapore 469514
Mon – Fri : 9 AM to 9 PMSat & Sun : 9 AM to 6 PM
239 Jalan Kayu, Singapore 799463
Mon – Fri : 9 AM to 9 PMSat & Sun : 9 AM to 6 PM
Get In Touch With Us Today
+65 6690 4691 Ashford Thomson | +65 6690 3163 Ashford Serangoon |
+65 6690 4903 Ashford Bedok
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