Crown Lengthening
Sometimes a tooth needs a crown, but there simply isn't enough tooth showing above the gums to hold one securely. Crown lengthening solves that problem. At Strategic Dental Care in East Orlando, we use crown lengthening to give your tooth the foundation it needs for a strong, lasting restoration.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
A crown lengthening procedure adjusts the gum and bone level to expose more of the tooth so it can be restored. Despite the name, the procedure doesn't actually make the tooth longer. Instead, it remodels the contour of the gum line. The gum line is lowered, which gives the dentist more tooth to work with when it's time to attach the crown.
When Is Crown Lengthening Needed?
Crown lengthening can be the only option available when the dentist discovers there isn't enough tooth structure for a crown to be placed. Common situations include:
- A tooth broken below the gum line. When a tooth has broken below the gum line, crown lengthening is often used to expose more of the tooth structure, giving the dentist more to work with when attaching the crown.
- Deep decay near the gums. If a cavity extends under the gum line, more of the tooth may need to be exposed so the damaged area can be fully treated and restored.
- Short teeth. Some teeth naturally have very little structure above the gums, which can make it hard for a crown or other restoration to stay in place.
- Replacing an old restoration. An old filling or crown that extends below the gums may need crown lengthening before a new restoration can fit properly.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Crown lengthening may be recommended if you need a crown or other restoration and your dentist finds that not enough healthy tooth is visible above the gums. Your gums should be free of active infection; if you have gum disease, we'll treat that first. We'll also review your medical history to make sure the procedure is safe for you.
The Crown Lengthening Procedure, Step by Step
- Exam and X-rays. We examine the tooth and take digital X-rays to see how much tooth structure is available and where the bone sits.
- Treatment planning. We explain why crown lengthening is recommended, which teeth are involved and how it fits into your overall plan for the crown.
- Numbing. The area is numbed with local anesthesia so you stay comfortable. Read our before anesthesia guidelines before your visit.
- Reshaping the gum line. The gum and, if needed, a small amount of bone are reshaped so more of the tooth is exposed.
- Healing. The area is cleaned and the gums are allowed to heal.
- Final restoration. Once the gums have healed, your dentist can prepare the tooth and place the crown.
Recovery After Crown Lengthening
Some tenderness and mild swelling are normal for a few days. To help the area heal:
- Take any pain medication your dentist prescribes as directed, or follow our guidance on over-the-counter pain relief
- Use a cold compress on the outside of your face to reduce swelling
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing directly on the treated area at first
- Keep the area clean as instructed and avoid vigorous rinsing at first
- Follow all of our post-operative instructions
Call us if you have bleeding that won't stop, swelling that gets worse, or pain that isn't controlled.
Cost, Insurance and Payment Options
The cost of crown lengthening depends on how many teeth are treated and how complex the case is. When crown lengthening is needed to restore a tooth, some insurance plans may provide coverage, but benefits vary.
Strategic Dental Care accepts most PPO insurance plans. Because every plan is different, call us at 407-284-1645 and our team will help you understand what your plan may cover before treatment begins. If you don't have dental insurance, ask about our in-house plans, which are designed to help reduce out-of-pocket costs. We also offer third-party financing, and there is no credit check to see if you qualify. Be sure to check our current specials too.
Crown Lengthening in East Orlando
Strategic Dental Care is at 12250 Strategy Blvd, serving East Orlando, the UCF area and nearby neighborhoods. Because we also provide crowns and other restorative care, we can plan your crown lengthening and final restoration together so each step fits the next.
Strategic Dental Care
12250 Strategy Blvd Ste 437, Orlando, FL 32817 (behind McDonald's)
Phone:
407-284-1645
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 9 am–5 pm; Friday, 8:30 am–2 pm
Frequently Asked Questions About Crown Lengthening
Does crown lengthening make my tooth longer?
No. It doesn't actually lengthen the crown of the tooth. It remodels the contour of the gum line, lowering it so more of the tooth is exposed.
Why would I need crown lengthening before a crown?
Crown lengthening can be the only option when there isn't enough tooth structure for a crown to be placed. It gives the dentist more tooth to work with when attaching the crown.
Can a tooth broken below the gum line be saved?
In many cases, crown lengthening is used to expose more of a tooth that has broken below the gum line so it can be restored. Your dentist will evaluate whether it's the right approach.
Is crown lengthening painful?
The area is numbed during the procedure. Some tenderness and swelling afterward is normal, and we'll give you instructions to keep you comfortable.
Will insurance cover crown lengthening?
Coverage varies by plan. We accept most PPO plans and offer in-house plans and third-party financing with no credit check to qualify.
Schedule a Crown Lengthening Consultation in Orlando
Call Strategic Dental Care today at 407-284-1645 to find out whether crown lengthening is right for your tooth, or contact us.
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