We all want a healthy, nicely aligned smile, but occasionally there is too much gum tissue that interferes with the teeth’s function and appearance. Two of the most common procedures for gum line reshaping are crown lengthening and gum contouring. They don’t sound distinct, but they are distinct procedures with different techniques. Learning about the two will inform you about which procedure might be best for you. If you’ve been weighing crown lengthening against gum contouring, this will be useful in knowing how they differ and what benefits each can provide.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure in which the excess gum tissue and, in some cases, bone is removed to expose more of the tooth’s surface. It is both functional and cosmetic.
Crown Lengthening Procedure
The crown lengthening is usually performed by the periodontist. The following are the steps involved:
- Anesthesia: A local anaesthetic is administered to the area to numb the area.
- Tissue Removal: The excess gum tissue is removed with care, and in certain cases, a bit of bone is also reshaped to expose more of the tooth.
- Suturing – The gums are sutured back together to heal naturally.
- Healing Process: Healing typically takes place in a few weeks, when patients need to follow some care to allow proper healing.
What Is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring, or gingival sculpting or reshaping, is a cosmetic dental treatment that aims to reshape the gum line to enhance the smile’s aesthetics. Unlike crown lengthening, gum contouring does not entail bone reduction; it is done mainly to enhance the symmetry or balance of the smile.
The Gum Contouring Procedure
Gum contouring is usually done with a laser or a scalpel and involves these general steps:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the gums.
- Reshaping the Gum Line: The dentist gently removes or reshapes the excess gum tissue to produce a more harmonious appearance.
- Healing Process: Recovery tends to be faster than crown lengthening, with limited discomfort that may be treated using over-the-counter pain medication.
Crown Lengthening vs. Gum Contouring: Key Differences
While both procedures involve modifying the gum line, there are some key differences between crown lengthening vs. gum contouring:
- Purpose: Crown lengthening is done for both functional and cosmetic reasons, while gum contouring is primarily for cosmetic improvements.
- Tissue Removal: Crown lengthening removes both gum tissue and, in some cases, bone, whereas gum contouring only removes gum tissue.
- Common Uses: Crown lengthening is often necessary to prepare for dental crowns, fix a gummy smile, or improve oral health. Gum contouring, on the other hand, is performed to enhance aesthetics and correct gum asymmetry.
- Procedure Length: Both procedures typically take less than an hour, but crown lengthening may take slightly longer if bone removal is needed.
- Recovery Time: Crown lengthening requires a few weeks of healing, while gum contouring typically heals within a few days to a week.
Which Procedure Is Right for You?
The right procedure for you depends on your specific needs and dental goals. If you need to expose more tooth structure for a restoration, crown lengthening is likely the better option. However, if you are simply looking to reshape your gum line for a more appealing smile, gum contouring may be sufficient.
Consulting a periodontist near you is the best way to determine which treatment will provide the desired results. Your dentist will assess your gum health, tooth structure, and overall smile before recommending the most appropriate procedure.
Why Choose Kennestone Periodontics
If you’re considering crown lengthening in Marietta, it’s essential to visit an experienced specialist. At Kennestone Periodontics, our skilled team offers expert gum reshaping procedures tailored to your needs.
Schedule a consultation today with a trusted periodontist to achieve a healthier, more confident smile!