Crown Lengthening in Williston, VT

Dentist Dr. Lauren Shanard is skilled at crown lengthening to enhance the look and health of your teeth. Crown lengthening may come off as an odd name to some because it sounds like it's making the tooth longer. A more precise term would be crown exposure because some of the gum tissue is removed to show more of the enamel. You might want crown lengthening for aesthetic reasons if you'd like to correct a "gummy" smile. Crown lengthening can also be performed if not enough of your tooth is visible to hold a filling, crown, or another restoration. To get more information, schedule an appointment at Contemporary Dental Arts in Williston, VT.

Candidates for crown lengthening are in good overall health, particularly with regard to the gums. Conditions such as gum (periodontal) disease might have to be addressed before crown lengthening can be done. Most frequently, crown lengthening is performed for aesthetic reasons to fix a "gummy" smile. In such circumstances, excessive gum tissue can be eliminated to balance the proportion of visible enamel to gums and give you a higher, more even gumline. However, crown lengthening may also be required to complete a dental restoration. Dr. Shanard might need to uncover more of your tooth in order to place a bridge, crown, or filling.

Before the procedure starts, a local anesthetic is used to numb the treated regions to make the process more comfortable. You can talk about other sedation options with Dr. Shanard during your initial consultation to help you stay comfortable and calm throughout the procedure. After you are ready, a small amount of the gum tissue is removed at a time to slowly show more of your enamel, and then your gumline will be sculpted for a lifted and even look. When Dr. Shanard has finished the procedure, she will seal the gum tissue and then rinse your mouth.

Following your treatment, your gums may be sore and inflamed. Cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers can be utilized to minimize your discomfort, but Dr. Shanard can write a prescription for antibiotics and/or pain medication. It can be easier to follow a soft food or liquid diet for several days while your gums heal. You ought to carefully clean your mouth with soft brushing and mouthwash, but avoid dental floss. In some cases, you might need to schedule another appointment at Contemporary Dental Arts to track your recovery. Dr. Shanard will also always assess your gums and oral health at your yearly dental examination.

The cost for crown lengthening will differ based on why it is being done. Dental insurance companies might cover a part of the expense in certain situations, but they might not. In any case, our financial staff will get in touch with your insurer to ascertain what your personal expenses will be prior to discussing your choices for payment. If you do not have insurance, Dr. Shanard can help estimate your expenses during your consultation and our financial coordinator can also provide you more information on low-interest medical financing, which can help to make your treatment easier to afford.

To transform your smile or restore your mouth, find out more information on crown lengthening treatments at Contemporary Dental Arts. By eliminating gum tissue, you can enhance the appearance of a "gummy" smile or prepare your mouth for a dental restoration. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Shanard to determine if you're a candidate for restorative or cosmetic crown lengthening treatments at Contemporary Dental Arts in Williston, VT.