Have you heard of dental crown lengthening before? It’s a routine procedure, but not something most people hear about until their dentist mentions it. Imagine you’ve fractured a tooth near the gumline or have decay that extends below the surface. Your dentist may explain that there isn’t enough exposed tooth to securely support a crown or filling. That’s where dental crown lengthening in Nashville comes in. This procedure adjusts the gum and bone around the tooth to create the space needed for a stable, long-lasting restoration.
What Is Dental Crown Lengthening?
Dental crown lengthening is a minor surgical procedure that reshapes the gum and sometimes the underlying bone to expose more of the tooth's surface. It's often recommended when a tooth is too short or damaged below the gumline, making it difficult to restore properly.
The goal is not cosmetic, although it may improve the appearance of your smile, but rather functional. By creating a more visible tooth structure, your dentist can place a crown, bridge, or filling with a better fit and longer lifespan.
When Crown Lengthening Is Recommended
Deep Decay or Fracture Below the Gumline
If decay or damage extends below the gumline, your dentist may have trouble cleaning the area and placing a filling or crown that stays secure. Crown lengthening makes the tooth more accessible and helps reduce the risk of future problems.
Not Enough Tooth Structure for a Crown
Dental crowns require a certain amount of natural tooth above the gumline to stay in place. If there’s not enough to grip, the crown may fail. Crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth so the crown can be properly fitted and sealed.
Gums Covering Too Much of the Tooth
Some patients have excess gum tissue that covers more of the tooth than necessary. In these cases, crown lengthening can improve both access for restorations and the appearance of the tooth, especially if it looks unusually short or uneven.
What Happens During Crown Lengthening and Recovery
Crown lengthening is a routine outpatient procedure that usually takes under an hour. Here’s what to expect:
- Step 1: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area.
- Step 2: The dentist removes a small amount of gum tissue, and sometimes bone, to expose more of the tooth.
- Step 3: The area is cleaned and sutured to promote healing.
You’ll likely need one to three days of rest, though full gum healing may take two to three months. Discomfort is usually mild and temporary. Your dentist will provide tailored aftercare instructions and a recovery timeline. Once healed, a crown or filling can be placed more securely, reducing the risk of future complications.
Are You Interested in Dental Crown Lengthening in Nashville?
If your dentist recommends dental crown lengthening, it’s likely because there’s not enough exposed tooth to safely place a filling, crown, or other restoration. This procedure creates a more predictable, long-term result rather than working around the issue and risking complications later. It also helps reduce gum irritation, improves the fit of dental work, and makes it easier to keep the area clean.
At Nashville Dental Implants & Laser Periodontics, we focus on creating a strong foundation for every smile. If you’ve been told your tooth needs more structure before it can be restored, our team can walk you through your options and provide care that supports your comfort and outcome. Contact us today to book a consultation.
