Crown lengthening is a versatile gum treatment that offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. One common reason patients seek this procedure is to address what is known as a “gummy smile.” A gummy smile occurs when the teeth appear shorter than usual due to excess gum tissue covering the upper portion of the teeth. In many cases, the teeth themselves are perfectly normal in size and shape, but the excessive gum coverage makes them look smaller. Crown lengthening removes a small portion of the gum tissue, revealing more of the natural tooth structure. This not only balances your smile but also boosts confidence by creating a more proportionate and attractive appearance.
In addition to its aesthetic advantages, crown lengthening can also play a crucial role in restorative dental care. If a tooth is damaged, fractured or decayed below the gumline, or if there is insufficient exposed tooth structure to support a crown or bridge, Dr. Temisan Meggison and Dr. Andrea Valencia may recommend crown lengthening as part of your treatment plan. By exposing more of the tooth, our dentists can ensure that the restoration can fit securely and function effectively. This makes it possible to protect and restore teeth that might otherwise require extraction.
The procedure is typically performed in a single visit. During the treatment, our skilled dentists will carefully reshape the gumline by removing small amounts of tissue to achieve the desired results. For functional procedures, the additional exposed tooth structure allows us to complete restorations like crowns or bridges without compromising their fit or durability.
Our team is dedicated to making the crown lengthening process smooth and comfortable for every patient. Whether you are seeking to enhance your smile’s appearance or need the procedure for restorative purposes, we are here to help. Contact MegaSmiles of Bethesda today at 301-564-4991 to learn more about how crown lengthening in Bethesda, Maryland, can improve your oral health and smile and schedule your personal consultation with our dentists. We look forward to assisting you on your journey to a healthier, more confident smile.